Singing White-throated Sparrow - Arapahoe

[Jared Del Rosso]

Just now, through closed windows, I heard the familiar starting notes (from somewhere near or in my Centennial yard). In 2012, as a new birder in Minnesota, I swore it must be someone unseen who was whistling on the trail with me. The song is too clear, too melodious. (You wouldn't believe how common this species is in the woods around my brother's house in New York State.)

Opening a window confirmed the song.

In other news, an Eastern Phoebe continues along the Little Dry Creek and High Line Canal Trail in Centennial. I swear I saw another Eastern Phoebe (at dusk, without binoculars) near Willow Spring Open Space. It, too, was over a creek, under an underpass--more appropriate Eastern than Say's Phoebe habitat. 

A singing Ruby-crowned Kinglet swung through my yard yesterday. Unlike the White-throated Sparrow, the song was lost on me (it's been sometime since I've heard it). I used Merlin to confirm, then later saw the bird, who gave the more familiar (to me) calls as well.

- Jared Del Rosso

Centennial, CO

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