Sooty Fox Sparrow. People have been waiting for Fox Sparrows to be split into a whopping four (4) species for well over a decade now. Alas, Sooty Fox, Slate-colored Fox, Thick-billed Fox and Eastern Fox have yet to appear on anyone's checklists. Lake Merced, San Francisco, CA.
Just came across this post from Bird Jedi Master David Sibley from early 2010, which I didn't catch 'til now. In it he uses his considerable powers to predict the next species splits in ABA Area avefauna...interesting to see what has come through so far, and what has yet to transpire.
The next 3 weekends could be some of the best birding weekends you have for the rest of the year, so get out! Fall migration is raging and rarities await.
Awesome Sooty Fox Sparrow
ReplyDeleteThanks Mia. Considering I have practically no idea what I'm doing using flash, I'm happy it turned out.
Delete"Also known as a 'Chimney Sparrow' for it's sooty appearance and cheerful, sing-song demeanor..." --David Sibley.
ReplyDeleteOn an aside, this is like the 13th Star Wars reference I've come across today, and it's not even May the 4th.
Thanks for keeping it all going. In the mean time, I will be hoping for any Fox Sparrows in the Phoenix area.
I'll have to use a more obscure reference next time. It's just too easy!
DeleteGood luck hunting foxes this fall.
The birds aren't out during the week days?
ReplyDeleteHa, not for the unhappily employed. This weekend talk is my way of trying to stay connected to this unfortunate part of the population.
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