Sparrow help - Jug Bay, Maryland, USA (1 Viewer)

[bcl05]

Hello - I saw this sparrow today at Jug Bay in Maryland. I am puzzled - the bright yellowish pink legs and light colored bill are throwing me off. It was in a scrub meadow with many chipping sparrows, a few white-throated sparrows, at least one swamp sparrow, and a few song sparrows. I was thinking a juvie chipping, but can't make up my mind. I haven't yet found any pictures in my books (inc. the Beadle/Rising sparrow book) with legs like that, though they do seem fairly variable. Vesper maybe? Eye ring not strong enough? Help please!

Thanks in advance.

 

[Peter C.]

With a broad, dark line through the eye like that, I wouldn't think Vesper is a candidate.

I don't see anything inconsistant with juvenile Chipper though - dark in the lores, streaked crown, bill and leg colour all fit.

Cheers,

 

[Jim M.]

Agree with Juvenile Chipping sparrow.

I haven't yet found any pictures in my books (inc. the Beadle/Rising sparrow book) with legs like that, though they do seem fairly variable.

My Beadle and Rising photo guide shows some with pink legs. E.g. 18.4.

Best,
Jim

 

[bcl05]

Thanks Peter and Jim. I thought it was a chippie, but couldn't quite commit. Confirmation is always helpful...