Vesper Sparrow - Pooecetes gramineus
K. Clare, Spring 2017.
Order
Passeriformes
Family
Emberizidae
Genus
Pooecetes
Description: Vesper Sparrows are summer residents of the area around Rio Mesa and migrate from
Northern and Central Mexico each year to nest. They are known for “dusting,” a type
of behavior where a bird “bathes” in small dirt particles. The reason for this act
is unknown but some birders think it could be used to deter ectoparasites.
The males and female of this species look the same, but they can be readily identified
in the field by their white outer two tail feathers. Up close, they can be separated
from other sparrows by their red “shoulder” and complete white eye ring.
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