April morning in the Badlands

It is really starting to feel like Spring has arrived!  An early morning drive from Rapid City to the Badlands confirmed it for me. I arrived just as the sun was rising over a marsh just south of the little town of Senic. 
 
A couple of miles down the road, with the sun on the rise dozens of meadowlarks filled the air with their song.  One of them willingly sat long enough for his portrait all while singing his heart out!

 This is a great time to visit the Badlands and of course early mornings are an added experience for the peace and quiet.  There are few visitors yet and very soon the grass will be greener and flowers will be out.  Tomorrow, more pictures from my morning jaunt through the South Unit of Badlands National Park.