Is this a fox sparrow?

CapturingLost · **Joined:** Aug 06 1:00 pm **Posts:** 12

I'm relatively new to birding and was wondering what type of bird this is. It was hanging out on some driftwood on the edge of Sasamat Lake. I assume it's a sparrow and the chest markings make me think it may be a Fox Sparrow, but, I have no idea. Thanks for the help.

GMcD · **Joined:** Jan 02 7:58 pm **Posts:** 166

Well, that IS a Sparrow, and I believe it's a Song Sparrow. Fox Sparrows are a bit larger and often darker and have triangular/arrow-head shaped chest/belly spotting. Google the Song Sparrow as well as the Fox Sparrow to see the difference. Song Sparrows also show more distinct face and "eyebrow" markings compared to a Fox Sparrow.

revs · **Posted:** Aug 07 5:01 pm

Yes, Song Sparrow for sure, as GMcD has pointed out.

Fox Sparrow for comparison.

CapturingLost · **Joined:** Aug 06 1:00 pm **Posts:** 12

Thanks so much for the help GMCD and revs!

youngbirder1 · **Joined:** Jan 26 8:47 pm **Posts:** 52

A simple way to ID FOSP (if you see the head) is that if there is some yellow on the bill you have a FOSP.

Wesley

CapturingLost · **Joined:** Aug 06 1:00 pm **Posts:** 12

I'm assuming these two are house sparrows. Am i right?

Jeremy Gatten · **Joined:** Oct 27 11:29 am **Posts:** 322

Yes - female (left) and male (right) House Sparrow.

Sparrows often seem like one of those impossible groups to figure out - probably the original LBJs - but they are really not that daunting once you get a few tips and learn their behaviours and typical habitats.

Good luck,
Jeremy Gatten
Saanichton, B.C.

keithric · **Joined:** Mar 26 11:46 am **Posts:** 53

in July, I posted to Bird Photography the link below contrasting a song sparrow and a fox sparrow. It may be helpful.

http://www.birding.bc.ca/community/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=6976

Cheers!
Keithric

Is this a fox sparrow?

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