American Tree Sparrows breed in the shrubby transitional zone between the boreal forest and tundra in northern Canada and Alaska, and will visit us in the winter, typically between late October and late April. Look for their bicoloured beaks — the upper mandible is dark gray while the lower is yellow. Their unstreaked pale gray breast has a smudge of dark gray forming a central spot. Photo taken in my backyard in Ancaster.
Hear more about Bob’s backyard birding experience and tips at BurlingtonGreen’s “Backyard Birding with Bob Bell” on Wed., Jan. 31 at 7 p.m. Click here to register.
About Bob:
Robert (Bob) Bell is an exploration geologist who had to retire after contracting Lyme disease. After settling in Ancaster, he quickly discovered the therapeutic benefits of birding as a coping mechanism for dealing with his chronic pain and illness. He is the author of “Out of the Lyme Light and into the Sunlight: Birding as Therapy for the Chronically Ill.” Bob is passionate about sharing his joy of birds and birding, and has given a number of talks on this subject on behalf of BurlingtonGreen. He would be delighted to have you follow his book and birding activity, by sending a friend request to https://www.facebook.com/TheBirderBob/, or by following him on Twitter at @ThebirderBob, BlueSky at @thebirderbob.bsky.social, or Instagram, @thebirderbob.
