Black-throated Sparrow Gallery

Amphispiza bilineata

eBird gives this description of the Black-throated Sparrow:  Evidence that not all sparrows are dull, Black-throated Sparrow is a sharp-dressed denizen of open, shrubby desert. Gray-brown overall with distinctive black-and-white face pattern, dark tail with white corners. Streakier juvenile shows a hint of adult’s face pattern, especially white eyebrow. Typically found on or near the ground in pairs or small flocks. Tinkling song with short trills and chips.  All About Birds gives this additional descriptive information for the Black-Throated Sparrow:  This resident of open, shrubby deserts is one of the sharpest-looking of all sparrows. Black-throated Sparrows have neat gray faces set off by two bold white stripes and a neat black triangular patch on the throat. The face pattern jumps out when the bird is perched in the open, but at other times the soft brown back and pale underparts help it blend in with its desert home. You’ll have to listen intently for little tinkling calls as these quiet birds forage on the ground for seeds and insects.

I had the opportunity to watch this bird at Christmas Mountains Oasis on August 31, 2020, and the next day at Davis Mountains State Park.  Definitely one sharp sparrow!