Vesper Sparrow in Clark County, VA
Susan Heath (sheath@erols.com)
Fri, 09 Apr 1999 16:15:49 -0500
All,
I went out to Clark County, VA this afternoon to check out William
Leigh's Vesper Sparrow. When I got there it was quite windy and I
figured I was going to be out of luck. Plus a farmer was plowing the
field on the right (or North) side of the gate where William saw the
bird. I walked the fence row for a bit and then headed back to my car
which was parked at the metal gate. Just as I was crossing the road I
saw a sparrow in the dirt next to the gate (and my car). I got a quick
look and crossed the road for a better view. The white edgings on the
tail feathers and the white eye ring jumped out at me immediately.
Also, the rusty shoulder patch was quite visible from the angle I was
looking, the two tone bill was evident and the white submustachial
stripe was pretty distinct. Overall the bird seemed much lighter than
the pictures in Rising's Sparrow book however. The farm tractor spooked
the bird which first ran into the field and then flew. Unfortunately, I
didn't catch the white out tail feathers when it flew. I waited a while
to see if it would come back but no luck. I believe I heard it singing
from somewhere in the field however.
This is perfect habitat for this bird. I wouldn't be surprised if it
hung around. Keep us posted William and thanks for sharing!
Sue
--
Susan Heath
Centreville, VA
sheath@erols.com