Hi all,
 This morning while out with the dog, I was watching my local  bluebirds get 
evicted from their first choice nest box by a pair of very  territorial 
mockingbirds, who seem to not want them anywhere around what I  assume is still 
their winter feeding territory. Anyway, the bluebirds now have  started building 
in my other, less desirable (as far as location, and as in all  real estate, 
its all location, location, location) box. Glad it was still open  at least. 
 
Just as I was getting ready to head back in, a small pair of very streaky  
birds landed in the small maple tree in the corner by the first bluebird box.  
From a distance I could see streaky bellies, white eye rings, sparrowish looks. 
 When they flew my thoughts turned to Pine Siskins or perhaps pipits, both of 
 which would be nice finds here (in fact pipit would be new). They flew and  
landed in the grass between me and home, so I approached closer and with dog 
in  tow (a very exuberant yellow lab, really enjoying himself this fine morning 
 and wanting to run and play, so this was not easy!).
 
Anyway, upon closer inspection, they turned out to be a pair of VESPER  
SPARROWS, the newest addition to my 20 year long yard list, and number 170!!  
Needless to say, they flew, and I hurriedly took the dog home, came back for a  
second look, and they could net be relocated. 
 
Try and get out and enjoy this glorious weather today.
 
Rick Sussman
Ashton,MD