Each year for the last several years, the Cayuga Bird Club has led field trips in early October specifically looking for some of these sparrow species. Many sparrows like weedy or brushy, old field habitats with a diversity of flowering plants that provide abundant seed sources in the fall. We are lucky to have one of the Cornell Community Garden areas nearby that provide an abundance of seed-bearing, flowering plants. Many of the people who use these plots are not content to grow only vegetables as many also grow an amazing variety of flowers. By October, most of the human food has been harvested, but the bounty for sparrows and other birds is at its height. This bounty attracts a great diversity and abundance of sparrows.
Great sparrow habitat is provided in the
Cornell Community Garden plots near Ithaca, NY.
Photo credit: Jody Enck
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As I noted above, most of these sparrow species are either year-round residents or short-distance migrants which winter in the U.S. When I head south in a few days to meet with members of bird clubs in Honduras to explore the idea of establishing sister birding clubs between North and Central America, I'll only have a small chance of seeing a couple of these sparrow species. Some Chipping Sparrows are found in Honduras as year-round residents. Lincoln's, Savannah, and Grasshopper Sparrows are uncommon winter visitors there. The other species that we enjoyed seeing in Ithaca on that Saturday are not found as far south as Honduras.
Field trip participants discussing the finer points of
distinguishing between Song and Lincoln's Sparrows
in the field. Photo credit: Jody Enck
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When the calendar indicates that it's sparrow season, head to old fields filled with weeds and seed-producing, flowering plants. Maybe you can find a convenient community garden area near you. These areas often provide great fall habitat for sparrows and a variety of other birds too.
Wherever you live, go out and see what bird species you can find. You never know what's lurking in a patch of habitat that you might pass by almost everyday.
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