Vesper Sparrow
Pooecetes gramineus
eBird provides this description of the Vesper Sparrow: Large, drab, streaky sparrow of grasslands, second growth, and bare ground. Most distinctive in flight, when it flashes white outer tail feathers. Also note the thin white eyering and rufous shoulder (often hidden). Forages mainly on the ground. Song usually starts with a couple clear introductory notes, followed by a series of trills and chips. All About Birds gives this additional descriptive information about the Vesper Sparrow: The Vesper Sparrow inhabits grasslands and fields across much of the northern United States and Canada. This streaky brown sparrow has a thin white eyering and flashes white tail feathers in flight; two features unique to the Vesper Sparrow. Although its most characteristic feature is a small chestnut patch on the shoulder, it’s often hidden from view. As its name suggests, it frequently sings in the twilight of vespers—a sweet series of musical slurs and trills.
I watched and photographed my first Vesper Sparrow at Berry Springs Park and Preserve near Georgetown on the morning of February 7, 2021. Below are a couple of the pictures I took that morning.
“Cool Facts” About the Vesper Sparrow From All About Birds:
- Vesper Sparrows sing a sweet tinkling song during the day and well into the evening hours—the twilight of vespers, prompting its name.
- The Vesper Sparrow is the only member of its taxonomic genus—Pooecetes, meaning grass dweller. Based on analysis of morphology, plumage, and other factors, its closest relative is thought to be the Lark Sparrow.
- The Vesper Sparrow responds quickly to changes in habitat; it is often the first bird species to occupy reclaimed mine sites and abandon old farm fields as they revert to forest.
- The oldest recorded Vesper Sparrow was a male, and at least 7 years, 1 month old when he was recaptured and rereleased during banding operations in Colorado.