Lincoln's Sparrow, Fernhill Wetlands, Forest Grove, Oregon on 19 October 2010 by Greg Gillson.Earlier this spring I discussed the identification of Lincoln's Sparrow.
Besides being a bit difficult to identify--because many sparrows are similar with striped heads and striped breasts--Lincoln's are notoriously skittish. Usually, they pop up on top of a shrub or fenceline for just a second (literally), then dart away, never to return. They usually do not allow you enough time even to lift your binoculars.
Thus I was delighted and amazed to have a bird in view for almost two minutes this morning, allowing several good photos!
The crown feathers of all birds can be raised and lowered at will, turning the normally rounded head of this species into a slight bushy crest.
