Song sparrows - an amazing number of variations.

Looking at these two birds, it would be easy for someone to mistake them for two separate species.  I have photographed song sparrows in the Lower Mainland for many years; their sparrow-like shape, brown and gray feathering, and noticable chest spot telltale signs of identification.  Then, while visiting Alberta, I came across a bird with a familiar silhouette and a definitive chest spot, but its colouring was all wrong.  Could it be a different species?

It turns out it was not.  As I researched the varients in the song sparrow, I discovered something fascinating.  It turns out that there are "some 52 described forms" and 24 different subspecies.  Song sparrow are "one of the most regionally variable birds in North America." (Click here for reference).  No wonder there was an element of confusion.

Given the variation in subspecies, it made me question if their song was standardized across their range or if it reflected regional differences.  I can recognize the song made by these perching birds immediately, so the question was would I recognize songs made by individuals across the country.  It turns out that they are mildly different from one another, but the mix of trills and sharp notes is very familiar.  To listen to them yourselves, click here and scroll/click through the buttons.

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