Fox Sparrow in Hiram today (and 2 Chipping Sparrows last week)

[Sean S]

During today's storm a Fox Sparrow showed up at the feeder station to join 5 White-throated Sparrows and dozens of Juncos.  It was very skittish and shy about coming out for the seeds on the ground, occasionally poking its head out of a bush.  With a Sharp-shinned Hawk making periodic raids, it seemed a wise choice.  Additionally, Pine Siskins & Red Crossbills continue to be seen periodically in small numbers.

On the 9th there was an adult Chipping Sparrow seen & photographed during that storm, followed by a DIFFERENT Chipping Sparrow (winter/immature plumage) grazing with the Juncos on the cleared snowblower paths on the 10th, although eBird still hasn't parsed the second sighting and photos.  Incidentally, sparrows and Juncos seem to love having open spaces of grass cleared for them in the winter.  One White-throated last week was finding various frozen insect treats including a giant caterpillar of some kind.   Photos from 1/10 (the warm day after the storm last week):: https://ebird.org/checklist/S158615477 .

Sean Smith