One of the last birds I photographed on my recent trip to Bear River MBR was this male House Sparrow, perched on a lichen-covered rock south of the Bear River.
Male House Sparrow on the rocks – Nikon D500, f8, 1/2500, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
Now, I am already very well aware of how people feel about this introduced species. I am also aware that there will be less views on this post than there would be if the bird I photographed on this rock were a different species.
If it were a hawk or falcon? Lots of views. If it were a native perching bird? Again, lots of views. If it were a duck on the rock? Well, I think it would still get plenty of views.
But that is alright with me. I photograph birds and a bird is a bird is a bird.
This House Sparrow was one of the many birds I photographed a week ago, and I am writing about it today. It was as much a part of my morning journey as any of the other birds in my viewfinder.
I find this House Sparrow photo visually appealing because of the lichen encrusted rock, the light, the background, the pose of the sparrow, and the look I appeared to be getting from the bird.
It is my opinion that there is nothing to dislike about the image. Except some people won’t like it simply because there is a House Sparrow in the photo.
To each her or his own. But as for me, I photograph and share the birds I find, whether they are native, introduced, extremely common, or going through a really bad molt phase. That is who I am.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my House Sparrow photos plus facts and information about this species.
I love this shot. It is such a simple, beautiful, composition. But, then it struck me that it is also subtly complex. It’s all there…texture, color, detail…and the eye contact is extraordinary. Maybe not so simple after all. Thanks Mia.
Definitely not the House Sparrow’s fault — he didn’t introduce himself! I love that he picked the perfect matching perch upon which to pose for you. Looks like he might have just finished a little snack too.
We love house sparrows at our house, next time we are together remind me to tell you about Lucky. She changed our lives our view of the world!
As Marty said, many of us are an introduced species in the area we call home. And a highly destructive species at that.
Nice photo of the House Sparrow. I love to watch all types of little birds that flock to my yard feeder, pretty much year round. They come grab a seed and quick as a wink they fly to the near by bushes or pine tree to eat and return.
Like all your photos, it’s a good one!
I think a lot of people, perhaps even some birdwatchers, aren’t aware that House Sparrows attack and kill Bluebirds and some other birds, and will take over their nestbox.
We, too, are an introduced species in this hemisphere. Can’t be critical there!
I enjoy your sparrows and your spiders!
Marty,
“We, too, are an introduced species in this hemisphere.”
Right?
I look at all birds just because I’m a birder. The only thing I don’t look at is when you post spiders.
Liz, your comment made me giggle. I always love your comments but had no idea you didn’t care for my spider posts!
More spider shots for me! 😉💜
Thanks for posting this male House Sparrow photo! The bias against introduced birds seems a bit misplaced. After all, humans introduced them! I appreciate your open-mindedness toward all creatures as much as your extraordinary photographs and blog posts.
Thank you Kathy, it is good to know other people think the bias against introduced birds is misplaced!