Sparrow identification (1 Viewer)

[jmepler]

I found this picture as I was cleaning up my hard drive.

Taken on June 15, 2012 in the serpentine barrens in southern Pennsylvania. Brushy fields with scattered pitch pine and scrub oak.

What do you think?

Mike

 

[Tero]

The streaking on sides was confusing. Juvenile field sparrow?
http://www.catharus.com/gallery2/d/2993-2/Field_Sparrow_W5G8205.jpg

 

[birdmeister]

I'm guessing Vesper Sparrow because of the rufous on the shoulder. I don't think it's buffy enough for Field.

 

[Tero]

The cheeks did not look like adult Vesper. Even juvenile has some pattern.

 

[birdmeister]

Anyone else?

 

[tom baxter]

I'm pretty sure its a field sparrow but it is a tough photo. As others mentioned it is a juvenile because of the streaking on the chest. You can also see a hint of white outter tail feathers which is consistent with both vespers and field, but the tail is long and is the right length for a field sparrow. Agree that vespers would be more heavily patterned on the back, and the facial pattern beneath the eye is too weak for vespers, and in my opinion is fine for field sparrow. While an eye ring is a feature more associated with vespers, its usually more obvious than shown on this bird. Sometimes an eye ring is apparent on a field sparrow. All in all, looks fine for field sparrow and a little off for vespers.

 

[KC Foggin]

Immature Field Sparrow for me as well.

 

[birdmeister]

Ah, makes sense to me now. Thanks.

 

[jmepler]

Thanks for the help. Field Sparrows are plentiful at this site.