Chestnut-collared Longspur eating grubs near Grasslands

Near Grasslands National Park in Saskatchewan, there is a place where Chestnut-collared Longspurs live in summer. When we drive through that area, I want to go slowly, to watch these brown birds on the rocks and sagebrush — and, if they'll cooperate, take a close look with binoculars or camera to see that they aren't simply first-glance brown, but rich chestnut, red, ochre, black and white.

Chestnut-collared Longspur with a grub - dinner? or food for nestlings?
I love the rich brown shades on its back. © SB

Chestnut-collared Longspur on sagebrush. Seen from the front, its black belly draws the eye.  © SB

What are these? Chestnut-collared Longspurs.

Location: Near Grasslands National Park, Saskatchewan.

Photo date: June 23 and 24, 2015.

~~~~~