The Skylarking Sparrow
(click on a photo to enlarge)
Last year we neither saw nor heard a sparrow that should be common in the habitat in which we live — higher elevation grasslands with small shrubs, agaves and yuccas. Perhaps it was the lack of monsoon rains which were so infrequent that the grasses never did green up. Green grasslands seem to be a requirement for the secretive Cassin’s Sparrow (Aimophila cassinii). In fact, this species is thought to be nomadic moving to where the habitat is suitable during breeding season. It might be common one year and a no-show the next if conditions aren’t right.
As far as appearances are concerned, this is not a standout kind of bird. Rather, it is a very unremarkable looking sparrow that prefers to skulk in the grasses. I had to take this shot from quite a distance as the bird would drop down into the grasses if I got too close.
Cassin’s Sparrow (Aimophila cassinii)
When they find suitable habitat for setting up a territory, the males will fly up to visible perches and burst into a beautiful song hoping to attract a mate.
I’m Here, Where are You?
This usually occurs when the monsoon rains arrive and the grasslands green-up. The males then begin one of the most amazing mating displays of any sparrow — skylarking (flying up into the sky and fluttering down to a prominent perch) and singing all at the same time. Here’s a video that I took of a male Cassin’s Sparrow skylarking and singing from a perch on August 18.
Pretty cool, eh?
August 30th, 2010 at 2:21 pm
Ah! It’s great to know that even the plain, unnoticed birds have a hidden talent, to be appreciated if you watch and listen carefully. There are people like that too, no doubt.
September 8th, 2010 at 8:51 am
I am so glad you have identified, by sound, my night-time singing bird. We have one of these, near our house, that sings all night, every night, kind of a lonely sound at night. Now I’ll know him when I see him as well.