Young Song Sparrow at Farmington Bay WMA

While I was visiting Farmington Bay WMA last week, a young Song Sparrow showed up in my viewfinder and perched in a greasewood shrub for a few moments.

Immature Song Sparrow at Farmington Bay WMA – Nikon D500, f8, 1/800, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

I know that some people don’t get excited about these ‘little brown birds,’ but I sure do. I actually enjoy identifying sparrows – well, all birds really – because young sparrows can be especially challenging. I like challenges.

The young Song Sparrow gave me a few good poses and lovely eye contact before it flew up to the top of the greasewood. I kept hoping to get photos of the sparrow on top of the greasewood, but it was mostly hidden by the shrub. I’m happy with this simple photo though.

Other Sparrow Species at Farmington Bay WMA

Now that summer is almost over and the temperatures have started to drop, I should start seeing other sparrow species at Farmington Bay WMA. I’m looking forward to seeing American Tree , White-crowned, Chipping, and Lincoln’s Sparrows again.

Maybe I will get lucky and spot another vagrant White-throated Sparrow there, like I found and pointed out in November of 2021. Or a Harris’s Sparrow that I found in 2018 – I never got an unobstructed view of that uncommon sparrow, but I did get to point out a lifer for another person.

Also in the sparrow family, the Dark-eyed Juncos and Spotted Towhees should start showing up soon, along with possible Brewer’s and Vesper Sparrows. I never know which sparrow species might show up during the fall migration.

One thing I absolutely do know, though, is that I am always on the lookout for birds. I never stop looking or listening for them, no matter where I am.

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to see more of my Song Sparrow photos plus facts and information about this species.