Back view of a Vesper Sparrow on a rock – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1000, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
Vesper Sparrows aren’t bright or colorful birds but I find their appearance subtly beautiful in a quiet kind of way and their songs are always a delight to hear in the morning or late afternoon. A recording of their song can be heard here.
I spotted several Vesper Sparrows on Antelope Island State Park three days ago but I was only able to take quality images of this one that was perched on a rock in early light. I like the setting in this frame, the back view of the bird and how the sparrow turned its head towards me.
I’ve seen Vesper Sparrows in several locations this spring as they have migrated into northern Utah. I hope to find more of them away from Antelope Island and the horrid biting gnats (no-see-ums) that I can photograph while they are here. I’m a mess from those gnats even three days later and probably will be for several more days.
Vesper Sparrow in early morning light – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1250, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
After getting a bit closer to the Vesper Sparrow I had the opportunity to take photos of it from the side and the front with better light on it. That white eyering sure stands out well!
Once the sparrow hopped off of the rock and onto the ground I wasn’t able to get another clear shot of it because there were grasses obstructed my view.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Vesper Sparrow photos plus facts and information about this species.
I adore the lbjs. Yours and ours. Subtle magic.
Delightful! Thanks for including the link. I’m sorry about the noseeums.
Such a beautiful song from such a cute little bird!!!