Cute Hat!

These cute, little birds are White-crowned Sparrows. They migrate through my area during the Spring and Fall migrations. I see them up on the patio where they tend to hop around on the ground under the feeders, and less frequently up on the feeders. I also see them out in the meadows where they hang out in groups together. Occasionally, I see one alone.

Some people refer to the black stripes-on-white markings on their head appear as if the bird is wearing a bicycle helmet. If that helps someone remember the species, let them wear hats!

The juveniles have brown, rather than black stripes on their heads. That can lead to a bit of head-scratching regarding what bird it might be. Tree Sparrow? Chipping Sparrow? No, it’s a White-crowned Sparrow! Isn’t it cute?