Late winter Savannah Sparrow on the ground – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1250, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
Yesterday morning I was delighted to find a late winter Savannah Sparrow out in the open to photograph next to the road. I was on my way back to the interstate after a nice trip around the auto tour loop of Bear River MBR when I found the sparrow.
I’ve been hearing Savannah Sparrows singing for a couple of weeks but this was the first time this year that I could get one in my viewfinder.
How I find Savannah Sparrows at Bear River MBR
- I listen for their calls and songs. During the spring season these sparrows can be heard frequently along the road to the auto tour route and on it.
- I drive slowly which makes it easier to find the Savannah Sparrows visually.
- I stop and wait alongside the road when I hear them singing and scan the area.
Savannah Sparrow foraging in late winter – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1250, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
The Savannah Sparrow dropped to the ground when I slowed down next to it. I kept hoping the sparrow wouldn’t fly off as I watched it moving through the grasses while I waited for a pickup truck to go past where I parked at the edge of the road.
Perched late winter Savannah Sparrow – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1600, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
After a minute or two the Savannah Sparrow flew up and landed on the fence above where it had been foraging. I liked the photos of the sparrow foraging on the ground and the images where it was in plain view.
Late winter Savannah Sparrow perched on a fence – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1600, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
I love seeing and hearing Savannah Sparrows. I was thrilled to photograph this one yesterday.
I have some singing to do today myself. I have to call my oldest son, William, and sing him the Happy Birthday song!
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Savannah Sparrow photos plus facts and information about this species.
Once again you’ve captured the detail, textures and colors so incredibly well in these shots. I think sparrows are often taken for granted. But these pics certainly illustrate what beautiful birds they are. Thanks Mia.
Such a pretty little bird. I can see why you like them so. Happy Birthday to William!
Life is good indeed.
I guess I missed you, I was there in the morning, 7:45, and only saw one other man in a black jeep, who I passed on the north side. I did not see any fresh tracks in the mud as I drove the first round but round 2, I noticed my set and two other set of tire tracks, one must have been yours. I heard and saw glimpses of Savannah Sparrows. I was trying for the singing Marsh Wrens but they are still more jumpy than staging. I like the first shot is shows how the refuge is starting to green up.
Good eye, Mia! This little one seems well-camouflaged. Thank you for sharing this lovely treat with all of us.
Great shots, thanks for sharing!!
Beautiful, thanks for posting!