MDI Birds
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    White-throated Sparrow / Zonotrichia albicollis

    : Breeds. mid May-late Jul in open coniferous and mixed forests. Especially numerous in the drier woodlands such as are found on various mountain tops and the Wonderland and Ship Harbor trails.

    : , often in loose flocks, beginning mid Apr and again late Sep-early Nov, with from late Mar and to late Nov, in open woodlands, weedy field edges, thickets, gardens, and where migrants concentrate .

    : Dec-late Mar mostly at bird feeder but can be encountered in open woods well into the months in years with little or no snow.

    Miscellany: Adult White-throated Sparrows of both sexes come in two morphs, ‘white striped' and ‘tan striped.' Interestingly ‘White-striped' birds of both sexes prefer ‘tan striped' birds as mates, and research has shown that the ‘white striped' birds are more aggressive in defending their territories while ‘tan striped' birds are more nurturing of their young. The species' song is one of the characteristic sounds of open coniferous woods. Listen here.

    You can learn more about White-throated Sparrows and see images here.

    Last Updated: October 14th, 2022

    Locations

    1. 1. Ship Harbor Trail Head 44.23150857354, -68.325396400227
    2. 2. Wonderland Trail 44.233678, -68.319814