Tie-Tack Sparrow

Day 68: I call 'em "tie-tack sparrows." Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia) is easy to identify because his brown stripes converge in the center of his breast to make a dark spot, i.e., his "tie-tack." These little fellows are common here year-'round, but tend to be especially abundant during the winter months. His song is a lovely cascade of trills, but more commonly heard at this time of year, the call is a short, single syllable. It varies in pitch when the bird is alarmed, rising in tone and becoming harsher. Song Sparrows can be seen across the US, but novice birders should be aware that there is quite a bit of colour variation regionally. Look for the tie-tack to confirm the identity.