Here is a sparrow grab-shot that I took as I was leaving Lamar Valley in Yellowstone (sage habitat in June). I never been sure of the ID, so I thought I'd ask here. My mind considered a pale-marked Song Sparrow, but I'd appreciate all thoughts and opinions. Thanks!
I've looked in my bird books, and these guys are hard to identify, but it could be one of the three, 1st a Vesper Sparrow, 2nd a Sage Sparrow, 3rd a Savannah Sparrow. There so hard to tell when there juveniles. So maybe some one else might know. I hope this helps. Great picture MCB
I think this is a Vesper Sparrow Pooecetes gramineus. It's been a long while since I have seen this species but the field marks shown here match Sibley quite well. Note the fine streaking on the flank, cream belly (Savannah has white), pattern of auricular feathers (those below and behind the eye), white outer tail feathers (Song are dark). Sibley even shows the little rusty patch on the shoulder. Anyway not 100% but that's my guess.
Sparrow Expertise Needed
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