This bird was photographed in early October in Flint Hills NWR, Ks..
My first thought is Juvenile Clay-colored Sparrow, but not that familiar with the species.
I agree with Savannah Sparrow.It's the commonest sparrow in Newfoundland in the early fall.Just wondering Charles,what was it about this bird that gave you difficulty,or made you think of juv Clay Colored? Savannah Sparrows can be pretty variable.
I guess the way it acted and perched-the fine lines on the breast seem just not coarse enough for Savannah and no good yellow eye spot. The facial pattern seemed too distinct for Savannah. I know Savannah's can be very variable and I will look if I have other pics of this bird to take a better look at tail.
The breast streaks looked as fine as the ones you see on the Lincoln's Sparrow. Will try to post a 2nd pic of this bird .
Thanks for thoughts and broadens my thinking !