Photos and Text by Beth Marlin Lichter
Zonotrichia leucophrys
Still in the honeymoon stage of birding, I would call myself an advanced novice. Every bird is an uncommon bird. I get excited about a good photo of an American Robin with a berry in its beak. Every species is unique with skills and behaviors worthy of observation.
Birding for me is like going on a treasure hunt. No expectations but there are always bucket list birds, target species for an outing that if found, make me profoundly happy. Connecting with nature is mood-elevating.
In the fall of 2024 husband George and I drove down the coast from Portland, Oregon to Muir Beach, California to attend a wedding. Stopping regularly along the way to check out parks and refuges, we found flocks of White-crowned Sparrows everywhere, atop hedgerows and tangles of berry bushes, along forest edges and shrubby borders on cliffs above the ocean. I was amazed at how prolific they were and was delighted by our daily encounters with those striking black and white heads. Their serenade of cheerful song was the soundtrack of our trip. But once back home in Portland my bird interest swiftly pivoted towards the arrival of favorite winter birds such as Short-eared Owls and Tundra Swans. I forgot all about the sparrows, until now, a year later.
Arriving at Shillapoo Wildlife Area near Vancouver Lake for my first Short-eared Owl quest of the season on 11/18/25, I was immediately greeted by the song of a White-crowned Sparrow. So distinctive. VAS board member Ken Pitts says they are singing “I—’m just so glad you are here!”. These birds are abundant, conspicuous, nest low in shrubs and perch in the open to sing. They can pop out against a dark, cold grey landscape at eye-level and make your day with their striking plumage and buoyant song. I am just so glad they are here!
Click here and listen to the song of the White-crowned Sparrow.
Vancouver Audubon 