Sparrow with a Pretty Face

Lark Sparrows on the rocks at Oahe Dam in central South Dakota

Large numbers of Lark Sparrows have arrived in central South Dakota this week. I have seen them in my yard and out on country roads. This afternoon I saw some hopping around on the rocks at Oahe Dam. I think Lark Sparrows are quite attractive with contrasting black, brown, cream and white markings on their faces. Even though some people would say they are "just sparrows," I would even call them pretty. Don't you agree?