Harris's Sparrow (Zonotrichia querula) 27 February 2012. Cascade Ranch, Pescadero, SM, CA Photos © 2012 Joseph Morlan




This is a local rarity, first reported 11 December 2011. My earlier photos from 18 December 2011 are here.

The is arguably, the largest sparrow in North America. It is also one of most poorly known. It breeds in remote regions of Canada and its nest was not described until 1932 when the species was found breeding near Churchill, Manitoba. It winters mostly in the southern plains, but vagrants may show up almost anywhere in North America.

This is an adult. Immatures lack the black on the chin and throat. Males and females are similar, although males are larger and may have a more extensive black bib. Winter and breeding plumages are similar, except that winter birds have the face washed with buff instead of the white color of breeding.

Digiscoped with Panasonic DMC-LZ5 | Nikon FieldScope III | 30XWA |hand-held (no adapter)
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