Day 7: Lark Sparrow

Jared and I had a terrific day birding the eastern shore of Maryland. The weather was beautiful, and we saw a lot of great birds, including the Lark Sparrow, a very handsome and distinctive bird.

After a few stops along the way this morning, we stopped at Assateague State Park, where the Lark Sparrow has been seen since November. Normally, it's found in central and western U.S. and is a very rare visitor to coastal Maryland, especially during the winter.

The Lark Sparrow has a dark-streaked brown back and a white belly, except for a dark center spot. Its cheeks and crown sides are chestnut colored. 

When we arrived at the location where the sparrow has been seen before, it only took us about ten minutes to spot it sitting peacefully in the bushes. We were able to watch it for quite a while and got some decent photos and video.

It's been a fun, but exhausting day, so I'm off to rest for now. More updates on the birding trip to come tomorrow!