Immature Chipping Sparrow perched in willows – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1600, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
I photographed my first of season immature Chipping Sparrow on my last trip into the mountains as it perched on a thin dead willow branch. There were three of the young Chipping Sparrows close together at the top of the willow thicket. This was the only one of the juveniles that came out into the open.
This year I haven’t seen as many Chipping Sparrows as I have in previous years. I am not sure why but I thought it might be worth noting my observations. Earlier in spring there seemed to be a normal number of this species so perhaps they have moved to other locations due to the ongoing drought we are experiencing.
As abundant as Chipping Sparrows are in the lower 48 during the breeding season I don’t have as many images of them as I would like to have.
The young Chipping Sparrows that hatched here this year will spend this month and next figuring out where to find food and strengthening themselves for fall migration.
Chipping Sparrows get their name from the sharp “chip” calls they make as they forage and interact with each other throughout the day.
I only had this young Chipping Sparrow in my viewfinder for a few seconds. The time I had with it was enjoyable.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Chipping Sparrow photos plus facts and information about this species.
I am so glad that this one deigned to come out into the open for you.
Love those little brown birds. Look forward to their arrival every spring.