Saltmarsh Sharp-tailed Sparrow

Continuing my quest to find as many species of sparrows as possible in North Carolina, my friend and I headed down to around the Wilmington area this morning. After what seems like the longest, coldest winter we have had in some time, a day of expected 60 deg weather was too much to pass up to enjoy being outside.

Last August I attempted the same trail we went on today on one of the 95 deg days and high humidity which was very stupid on my part. Half way through the trail, between the heat and mosquitoes, enough was enough. Today, very pleasant. While the numbers of birds were not there, you could enjoy the walk without insects driving you nuts.

Yellow-Rumped Warblers and Robins eating berries from the Yaupon and Cedar trees were by far the greatest number of birds present. Several times we did spot the Northern Harrier flying searching for prey. Never came close enough for a good shot.

Finally got a good shot of one of the Saltmarsh Sharp-tailed Sparrow. Of conservation concern they are considered vulnerable. Their range is limited to the coastal plains of U.S. east coast and gulf coast states.