As We Enter The Fall Season

As we enter the fall season many birders are out scouting the fields for the arrival of new species of sparrow that may be passing through.

Lincoln's Sparrow is one that we keep  our eyes open for. Sparrows can be a little tricky to identify, especially if you are new to birding. I always notice a caramel wash on its breast. It has that eyeline that works its way back to a sort of triangle, and a little grayish on the side of the face. There are other things to look for as well but the most important thing is to remember as many details as possible before looking in your field guide. If you're still not confident, you can upload your photo to a birding website like Birdforum.

The birdbath continues to work out well. Recently, there has been 5 bluebirds that take daily baths which I am pleased about. 30 years ago there were very few bluebirds around. Now I see them everywhere! At the same time. House Sparrows seem to be in decline. They used to fight with bluebirds over nestboxes.

While out looking for sparrows in the fields, I come across other surprises here and there like this Merlin with its intimidating scan across the field. 

I'm much looking forward as we move further into fall as more sparrows pour into the fields. I must say, the weather has been overall excellent over the summer and into the fall. We had a couple of very hot weeks but overall the weather has been very comfortable! I am  hopeful that real fall weather hangs on now before winter takes hold.