Wanted to follow up on my previous post. For anyone that might not know me I have been dubbed a "sparrow nut". I spend 99% of my birding time looking for or at sparrows. For folks that are not familiar with sparrow migration October is the optimum time to find sparrows. They are very plentiful in the correct habitats. I know that any appropriate habitat throughout the state will have the same numbers of sparrows that Howard County does. It is not that we have prime habitat- we have people looking!
    I did find a NELSON'S SHARP-TAILED last week also. (they are very rare here) Today's birds make 3 which is a very good count and it is only the first week of Oct. It may be a good season for them. Please check the website howardbirds.org for upcoming field trips that will all include sparrows. The trip I am doing this Saturday is geared for beginner's with emphasis on ID. The BIG DAY which I do every year is not for the faint of heart. It is ALL DAY extreme hiking BUT we have always found great birds!
    I often go weekday mornings so feel free to e-mail me if you're interested in joining me. Please be aware that gortex and high boots and clippers are needed and I do not often go on trails.

    Bonnie

    Bonnie Ott
Howard County Field Trip Chair
Ellicott City, MD