Vesper Sparrow

Vesper Sparrows are Rare in Western Washington April-October.

Habitat

Vesper Sparrows are commonly found in dry grasslands, and agricultural fields at low to moderate elevations. These sparrows breed in native shrub-steppe habitats or in small patches of unplowed grass and shrubs near agricultural fields.

Behavior

Vesper Sparrows are often seen in loose flocks before fall migration. They spend most of their time on the ground and take frequent dust baths. Males sing from the highest perches in their territories--often a fence post, shrub, or tree limb. During courtship, the male walks or runs along the ground with his wings raised and his tail spread widely, then periodically rises into the air to give a short flight-song. The female has been known to protect the nest by dragging her leg or wing in a distraction display when threatened. The call is distinctively different from those of the Song Sparrow and the Savannah Sparrow.