Any day now I should spot my first of season fledgling Song Sparrow exploring their world and learning how to find food on their own.
Fledgling Song Sparrow and its reflection – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/800, ISO 500, -0.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
I am a little surprised I haven’t found any yet while I have been high in the Wasatch Mountains but things have been a little off this year due to a long, cool spring followed by our continuing drought and very early high temps.
Both of these photos were taken on July 20, 2020 next a creek in the mountains where I have photographed quite a few adult and immature Song Sparrows in the past. Where this young sparrow was perched last year there was plenty of water. This year this area of the creek is dry. It has been dry for weeks.
Fledgling Song Sparrow eating at the edge of a creek – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/800, ISO 500, -0.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
This morning clouds are moving into the Salt Lake Valley and will be keeping me at home and out of the field but as soon as I can I hope to head up into the high country to look for fledgling Song Sparrows to photograph. They are fun to observe as they explore their habitat and learn how to be on their own.
I am hoping that this summer I will be able to take high quality photos of an adult Song Sparrow feeding a fledgling where I can see the eyes and faces of both birds and have them sharply in focus. That would make me quite happy.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Song Sparrow photos plus facts and information about this species.
I find these two pics [especially the first one] particularly affecting. The little guy is just getting started and it’s a big world. I love the eye contact you captured in the young sparrow’s reflection. Thanks Mia.
Keeping my fingers crossed that your monsoonal system brings you a bit of rain (without the hail and lightning). I’m imagining this little cutie as a parent this season and hope that you get to see its offspring soon!
I hope you do too. I was blessed to be able to watch fledgling yellow headed black birds being fed, on the plains west of Laramie. I always think of you when I am out shooting. It’s is such a joy to see your wonderful images.
I hope (so much) that you get your wish. And that your clouds bring much needed rain.
They are so cute! I’ve been watching chipping sparrows and Carolina Wrens in my yard here in Virginia. Not getting out much but fortunately I have basic stuff coming to my feeder. Love your photography and comments!