Lark Sparrow: Connecticut Audubon Society Bird Finder for November 25

Lark Sparrow, a bird of the farms and plains further west, has been seen twice in Connecticut recently.

What it looks like: This rather large sparrow is quite conspicuous with its striking face pattern of black, white, and rust: a “harlequin” pattern. A long, rounded tail with white corners is unique and noticeably visible when the bird is in flight. Like a Song Sparrow, Lark Sparrow has a bold central breast spot, but on a plain, unstreaked, white background.

Where to find it: Lark Sparrows are a rare but regular visitor to Connecticut. Typically found to our west, this species can be expected on the east coast and New England each fall.

How to find it: There have been two recent sightings of this species in Connecticut in the past few weeks. One sighting was at Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison, the other at Ocean Beach Park in New London. The New London bird has hung on and was most recently seen this last Sunday down the path next to the water slide.

What if it isn’t there: Other birds in the area have included the Ipswich race of the Savannah Sparrow, Common Eider, Brant, and Surf Scoter. This New London coastal site is a good winter birding destination.

Conservation status: A decrease in population size has been noted from Breeding Bird Surveys across North America and especially in the eastern edges of its range. It is listed as being of least concern by the IUCN.

This week’s Connecticut Audubon Society Bird Finder was written by Andy Griswold, director of Connecticut Audubon Society’s EcoTravel program, and edited by Tom Andersen

Photo by Len Blumin.