January 21, 2025

A Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia), common in much of North America. They do migrate but are found here in Virginia year round. A Sparrow that is for me a challenge to distinguish from the White-throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis). Yes there are small but obvious differences but they don’t come close enough for me to check out those differences and of course they don’t stay still. My camera is a great help for me.

Another help is their song. Males sing more frequently, particularly during the spring but they are still vocal in any season. To help identify their song there is a mnemonic which can help us recognize what they are singing. It is: Maids-maids-maids-put-on-your-tea-kettle-ettle-ettle.

Not the most memorable mnemonic. But perhaps it will help.

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