It’s been a while since I last shared my observations about the Chipping Sparrows that visit my yard each year. I published my previous post, “A Glimpse of the Chipping Sparrow in My Arkansas Backyard,”on March 15, 2021. It highlighted their behavior around feeders and their knack for blending into the ground while foraging. These delightful birds visit regularly, especially during cooler months. They still offer great photo opportunities—if you’re patient.
A Rare Moment Captured
I took the photo I’m sharing today on December 12, 2024, near one of my feeders. Chipping Sparrows typically feed on the ground. Their grayish-brown plumage and petite size help them blend into leaves and grass. This makes photographing them a challenge. However, this individual gave me a rare chance by perching briefly, letting me capture its delicate features.
Photograph Details
- Date: December 12, 2024
- Time: 8:47 AM
- Camera: Canon EOS R5 Mark 2
- Lens: Canon RF 200-800mm at 800mm
- ISO: 10000
- Aperture: f/9
- Shutter Speed: 1/500 sec
- Exposure Compensation: +0.3
The soft morning light and these settings helped me get a sharp image despite the bird’s small size and low light. I used a high ISO to manage the dim light. The Canon EOS R5 Mark 2 performed well, capturing fine details with minimal noise.
Getting to Know Chipping Sparrows
Chipping Sparrows live year-round in Arkansas. They visit feeders more often in winter when natural food is scarce. They prefer seeds and cracked corn. You’ll usually spot them foraging on the ground.
Their understated plumage features a chestnut cap and gray underside. This helps them blend into their environment and avoid predators. It also makes them hard to spot and photograph. Capturing this image required patience. I waited for the bird to leave the ground and perch in the open. Moments like these highlight the importance of persistence in wildlife photography.
To learn more about the Chipping Sparrow, I recommend visiting the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s All About Birds page: Chipping Sparrow Overview
A Quiet Backyard Gem
If you’re in Arkansas, watch for these unassuming sparrows in your backyard. They may be easy to overlook, but their quiet presence offers a rewarding challenge for photographers and nature lovers. Their subtle charm reminds us of the beauty in small, ordinary moments.
So, grab your camera, settle in, and enjoy the quiet magic of the Chipping Sparrow. You might just capture a moment as special as this one.