American Tree Sparrow

On this cold, blustery morning in Clearfield County, Pennsylvania, I am watching an American Tree Sparrow at my bird feeder. In my state, he's a winter visitor, who spends the warmer months much farther north in northern Canada and Alaska. So if you see the Tree Sparrow in your yard, you know that winter can't be far behind.

Learning how to distinguish among the many species of sparrows can be a challenge. But I find Tory Peterson's field guides to birds helpful. For instance, within the Peterson field guide, you'll find sparrows organized visually, for instance, those with rusty caps (the Tree Sparrow has a rusty cap), those with streaked breasts, and those with clear breasts. Of course, there are many more physical characteristics you'll need to recognize. Notice the central dark spot of this bird's chest? It's yet another characteristic of the American Tree Sparrow. There are more such characteristics to learn, but these are a good place to start! (Image courtesy of U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.)

Till next time, happy birding!

Georgia Anne