As this winter drags on, I find myself yearning for the sounds of spring. In particular, I can barely wait to hear the soft morning song of a Vesper Sparrow.
Dawn Vesper Sparrow – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/640, ISO 1250, +1.0 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
In the mountains, early mornings are a true delight, thanks to the lilting melodies of the Vesper Sparrows. These songs are not only beautiful but also complex, consisting of a series of clear and whistled notes that never fail to mesmerize me. It is no wonder that many people describe the sweet and clear tone of Vesper Sparrow songs as soothing and peaceful.
For me personally, these songs are incredibly calming and comforting. Every time I hear them, I feel a sense of peace wash over me, as if all my worries have been lifted away. The beauty and complexity of their songs are truly wonderful and I feel superbly grateful every time I get to experience them.
Last May, I had the opportunity to hear the song of a Vesper Sparrow which led me directly to where it was perched high in the Wasatch Mountains. As the morning sun lit up the mountainside behind the sparrow, it created a stunning golden glow. While I observed and photographed the sparrow, I was thoroughly enchanted by its song.
I have started to crave hearing these sparrows again.
My patience is needed for a few more weeks. Once spring arrives in the high country I will hear them again.
Vesper Sparrows were known as “Bay-winged Buntings” prior to being named Vesper Sparrows. That is because of the small area of chestnut/rufous colored lesser coverts which usually are not visible. In the photo above that area is not visible.
Life is good. It is even better when I can hear this sparrow’s song.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Vesper Sparrow photos plus facts and information about this species.
Wonderful pic. The detail and colors are both subtle and perfect. Thanks Mia.
I have a hard time IDing them without the song.
Thanks for the ID tip re chestnut/rufous colored lesser coverts on this bird! Between that and its behavior, should be easy to find.
Thank you for the link to the song. Funny how it relaxes a person to listen to birdsong.
Yes, their song is haunting. I first heard it when we stayed at our condo in Illinois. It sang from rooftop early in the morning. Did not recognize the species but it looked like a sparrow, so I played all their songs on my app and found the match with Vesper. They nested nearby and I got great photos of them.