Hi Tweets,

I just spotted a new visitor to the feeding area I've established at work - a White-throated Sparrow. It's a tan-striped bird, possibly an immature bird, as the tail feathers look rather pointed and a little worn. I work on the south hill of Puyallup, off of Canyon Road. We have a 1/2 acre garden on the front of the property and the surrounding area is a mix of woods and businesses.

I've already had the winter's first Fox Saprrows (2) and Golden-crowned Sparrows (1-2) come in to add to the resident Song Sparrows, Towhees and Juncos. Make for a nice variety of sparrows.

It seems odd that I have seen a White-throated as my 61st yard bird - before I have recorded a single White-crowned Sparrow. There's enough open area around here that I would expect at least a migrant in Spring if not a wintering White-crown.

good birding,

Jim Flynn--
buteoreg at comcast.net
Seattle, WA