Fox Sparrow Extravaganza!
Posted on in Recent Sightings by Hawk Mountain
Fox Sparrows (Passerella iliaca) have been hanging around the Visitor Center feeders for the past few days in increasing numbers!
What started as one has evolved to approximately three to six fox sparrows spotted at the feeder each day, with an astounding 10 counted foraging at one time! Likely, these individuals are migrating through as they head to north to their breeding grounds in Canada. These large sparrows are striking, with their namesake rusty red streaking covering an otherwise gray face and pale underside. The tail and wings are a more solid red, and they sport a red cap. Fox sparrows forage in the leaf litter for insects using the “double-scratch” method, hopping with both legs to kick away leaves and other debris.
Photo by Bill Moses.