Though most folks would consider 2020 and, so far 2021 to be total busts (and rightfully so), I have seen more birds in my yard to add to my “life list” than ever. I have never before seen one of these sparrows. The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation states: Fox sparrows are found in habitats with abundant shrub cover such as thickets, mature forest and riparian woodlands. They are usually seen at feeders during periods of prolonged snow or ice cover. These birds are most likely seen in the eastern two-thirds of the state.
Well, we certainly have prolonged ice and snow cover right now, so they should feel right at home!
Specific Feedback Requested
Any
Technical Details
Is this a composite: No
Canon 60D, Canon 70-300mm IS USM zoom, f/5.6, 1/1000 sec., ISO 1000, Hand Held. Processed in ACR and PSE 2020 for exposure, color, sharpness, and NR. Light application of Topaz De-noise.
A very nice job, Terry, and a good catch. Lots of snow does bring strange birds to the feeders. I’ve seen four or five species that aren’t normally feeder birds the last few days and our snow has only lasted a few days thus far.
A really pretty sparrow. The chevron markings on front are the tell. This one is quite a bit redder than the ones we see around here, Vancouver BC area. Nice job placing the bird in the frame and a good pose. It is always good to add to your life list.
A very nice look at the sparrow in an interesting setting. I did a double take looking at the bird after reading the heading of “Fox Sparrow” and went to Sibley’s. It looks so different from those seen in the pacific northwest. I learned there are four sub-species with yours being called Red or Taiga and ours is called Sooty or Pacific. I’ve attached a shot from Oregon for comparison.
Thanks, Allen. Yeah, I researched this guy when I first saw him because I didn’t know what he was, and read about the four sub-species. Interesting how they have developed so differently. That’s a fine look at the Pacific Northwest region bird.
