Fledgling Song Sparrow next to an alpine creek – Nikon D500, f8, 1/400, ISO 400, +0.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
In the past week or so I have shared photos of a few fledgling birds which have included recently fledged Red-tailed Hawks, American Robins, Gray Catbirds, Yellow Warblers and Black-billed Magpies. I’m not done sharing photos of fledglings yet. This time of the year I see recently fledged birds practically everywhere I go and they can be so much fun to observe and photograph as they learn to fly and forage on their own.
Today I am sharing a photo of a fledgling Song Sparrow I photographed last week next to an alpine creek high in the Wasatch Mountains. This young sparrow could fly although when it did fly it wobbled a bit and I could tell that it was still learning how to use its wings to get to where it wanted to go.
I’m not sure if this fledgling Song Sparrow was looking for food as it perched next to the cool water of the creek or if it was just taking a short break from foraging. I have observed adult Song Sparrows catching nymphs of dragonflies, damselflies and mayflies emerging from the water at the edge of creeks, streams, ponds, lakes, and marshes many times over the years. Perhaps this immature sparrow was checking out the area to see if there was any food for it to eat. I can’t be sure.
What I am sure of is that there is ample of food for this fledging Song Sparrow to find adjacent to this alpine creek and in the habitat near it. My hope is that this young sparrow finds what it needs and flourishes.
Life is good. Stay safe.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Song Sparrow photos plus facts and information about this species.
I love how the dark blue creek accentuates the fine detail in the Sparrow. Great shot! Thanks Mia.
I am glad the song sparrows have raised a few of their own not just cowbirds!
This shot is fast becoming a favorite! Everything is so sharp, the colors are bright, and the composition definitely suggests a story to tell.
Echoing Marty – who continues to take words from my mouth.
They are so cute, You have done well photographing the fledglings.