I recently had the incredible opportunity to photograph a Savannah Sparrow near the auto tour road at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. This particular encounter was distinct from my previous experiences with the Swamp Sparrow and the White-crowned Sparrow, both of which I shared in my earlier blog posts. While those birds chose the shelter of a thicket, the Savannah Sparrow posed gracefully in a vast, overgrown field.
Savannah Sparrows are versatile creatures, often spotted on the ground or amidst low vegetation in open areas, especially along the edges of roads near farms during the winter season. Their daytime activity includes foraging on the ground or in low bushes. In winter, they also find refuge in grazed low-growth grasslands. As the winter migration approaches, these sparrows gather in large flocks, becoming incredibly energetic and vocal. Listen closely, and you’ll hear their flight call, a delicate “seep,” while their song is a captivating blend of “chirps” and trills.
Here Are A Few Additional Facts:
- Open Country Nests: When it comes to nesting, Savannah Sparrows often choose locations in open country, constructing cup-shaped nests on the ground. These nests are well-hidden among vegetation for protection.
- Varied Subspecies: The Savannah Sparrow has a range of subspecies, each adapted to its specific geographical region. These subspecies may exhibit subtle differences in appearance and behavior.
- Conservation Concerns: While the overall population of Savannah Sparrows is considered stable, certain subspecies and populations face threats due to habitat loss and changes in land use. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure the continued well-being of these birds.
Image Information:
- Date: 12/06/23
- Time: 10:43 AM
- Camera: Canon EOS R7
- Lens: Canon RF 800mm F11
- ISO: 1600
- Aperture: 11
- Shutter: 1/1600
- Exp. Comp.: +0.3
- Lens (mm): 800
- Program Mode: Manual