Vesper Sparrow - A Happy Grass Dweller

Vesper Sparrow

So far this summer, the bird I’m seeing most frequently in our foothills is the decidedly nondescript vesper sparrow. His name is Latin for ‘evening’ a time when this bird loves to sing.

At first glance, this stout sparrow looks rather drab but if you take the time to look closely, you’ll discover that he’s really quite beautiful. His overall light-brown color is intensified by a bright orange patch on the shoulder.

A pattern of dark streaks helps him to blend perfectly into the environment. Barely visible in the vast meadow to even the keenest observer, his exuberant song is what gives his presence away.

If you happen to cross paths with him, he’s not shy and he can be photographed rather easily. He tolerates a friendly encounter and watches curiously with his white-ringed eyes.

He hops down the dirt trail searching for his favorite foods, insects and seeds. If you get too close though, he will flash his white outer tail feathers as he alights to a nearby mullein stalk.

From this summer perch, the vesper sparrow vocally declares ownership of his nesting territory. This happy grass dweller loves to bask in the sun but even on a dreary, gray morning, his cheerful song will brighten your day.

Decidedly nondescript

This bird loves to sing

He looks rather drab

He's really quite beautiful

An orange patch on the shoulder

He's not shy

Tolerates a friendly encounter

Vocally declares territory

His cheerful song will brighten your day

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