Hi Konrad,

I think it is a first winter White-throated Sparrow.

Luc

I think Luc is correct.

Thank you Luc & Alan!
I posted this on another bird forum and a birders answer was Clay-colored Sparrow.
Now I'm more convinced that it is a Clay-colored Sparrow.
Any thoughts?
Konrad

Yes Konrad,I didn't bother to check my books,I think it is indeed a Clay-colored Sparrow.

Back north so soon?? I've not seen any since I was in Mexico

Hi Konrad,

I don't know. It's looks a little too bulky and dark colored to be a Clay-colored Sparrow.
Usually, the Clay-colored Sparrow looks a little like a Chipping Sparrow.
And, I think I saw some streaks near the base of the tail.

But, I may be wrong. With only one picture there're always possibilities of mistakes.

Wish is a Clay-colored,
Luc

Here is are a couple shots of a Savannah Sparrow:

{{!gwi}}

{{!gwi}}

{{!gwi}}

So it's definitely *not* a Savannah. . .am thinking perhaps luc was correct in his assessment of a first winter White-throated.

Here's an example,

photo by martytdx at Flickr.com

Thanks again!
I found more pictures, I think it's the same bird.

I also think it is the same bird with the same delicious meal.

It is a good thing that you have more than one picture Konrad because I have to congratulate you for your great pictures of a beautiful Clay-colored Sparrow!

I am glad to have been wrong on this one.
Luc

Thank you Luc!

Konrad