Here is suburban D.C. (Bethesda, Montgomery Co.) I've noticed a slight 
decline in Song Sparrows.  Even more apparent, stretching over several 
years, has been the obvious decline in Northern Mockingbirds.  We always 
used to have them around and nesting nearby.  Now it is rare to see or hear 
one in our neighborhood.

Jim Nelson
Bethesda, MD

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From: "Bob Ringler" <>
Sent: Thursday, September 23, 2010 10:51 PM
To: <>
Subject: Re: [MDOSPREY] Song Sparrows

> Dan,
>   I believe that last winter's heavy snows are at least partly to blame 
> for
> the lack of Song Sparrows. Like the Carolina Wrens it seems that many
> resident Song Sparrows may also have perished. Another factor may have 
> been
> the hot, dry summer which adversely affected breeding success this year 
> and
> discouraged multiple broods. I also believe that Mockingbirds have been
> similarly affected. On the Coastal Plain it may not be as apparent as it 
> is
> here in the Piedmont. There are probably other factors as well. The local
> Song Sparrows are quiet now and northern migrants have not yet arrived.
>
> On Thu, Sep 23, 2010 at 9:23 PM, Dan Haas <> wrote:
>
>> Anyone else noticing a complete lack of Song Sparrows these days?  I
>> can see that there have been a few recent sightings in our region, but
>> the numbers seem noticeable and low. I recall that they are not as
>> abundant this time if year, but...
>>
>> Thoughts?
>>
>> Good Birding,
>>
>> Dan Haas
>> West Annapolis, MD
>> 
>>
>
>
>
> -- 
> Bob Ringler
> Eldersburg MD