I think it appropriate that the first sparrow I photographed in this Birds of New Hampshire challenge was a song sparrow. Widespread and prolific, song sparrows are a familiar sight to much of the country. They can be found amongst the branches of shrubs and foraging on the ground, often in large flocks.

With seventeen sparrow species on the New Hampshire list, it is easy to be slightly overwhelmed with the number and sometimes lack easily identifying traits in this family of birds. The song sparrow is a perfect example of this. The species includes regional variations that adds to the confusion. Its streaky tan and cream colored chest is one of the best indicators that you have spotted a song sparrow and not one of the dozen or so other types of sparrows out there.