Been focusing on sparrows lately (large pics 56K beware)

[Maestro]

Spring migration is already getting into gear here in my area of Texas. I've seen purple martins and barn swallows already back in the area. One of my typical summer sparrows is a lark sparrow. Technically in looking at guides it says that lark sparrows are year-round but I rarely see them in the winter and fall, just spring and summer.

Here is the first one of 2008.


Of course the typical winter visitors are with me such as the savannah sparrows.




I think this one even is cracking a small smile. <;)>


The white crowned sparrows are still with us as well.


Another winter visitor that actually was a lifer for me was the Harris's Sparrow that showed up in the brush in the pasture next to my house.

[Inchworm]

1. I caught a Fox Sparrow passing through

Naturally, my picture in no way compares to yours :P

I was happy to catch it.


:hi:

[Maestro]

2. I'd love to photograph a fox sparrow

but they really do not frequent my area much and even then it is only in the eastern part of the state.

[Inchworm]

3. They were here for a day

scratching the ground eating like a Flicker or Towhee. I cleaned the window since and have been watching, but no luck.

I feel lucky to have seen them :)

:hi:

[KC]

4. Those are

really pretty. I love the Harris's Sparrow, I don't think I've ever seen one of those before.
I use to live in Texas (moved to NC) and I miss seeing scissor tails. Do you see those where you live?

KC

[Maestro]

5. I see scissor tailed flycatchers all the time.

They should be migrating back very soon, but until then here is one from last year.

[KC]

6. Thank you

I don't know why but I have always loved those birds.
When we were kids we used to always to try to spot and count them.

KC

[WannaJumpMyScooter]

10. Us too! And nighthawks... love them

are you from KC?

[Maestro]

11. Did you say nighthawk?

:)



During the summer months, nighthawks can be seen flying around many times with other nighthawks. I was luckly that I caught this one perched.

[ElsewheresDaughter]

7. So Delightful!! Splendid shots....thank you are the Maestro

[Maestro]

9. Thanks

You're kind. They are a bit busy but I am satisfied with them.

[JeffR]

8. Superb!

Nice to see the humble sparrow showcased so well.

[Maestro]

12. Here is a pic of one sparrow that I really do not like

but they are everywhere. They are not native to the US and disrupt the nesting of many native birds like purple martins and bluebirds. However, they are handsome little buggers.

European House Sparrow