Correction on Golden-crowned Sparrow

I was incorrect in stating that the Golden-crowned Sparrow was found this year by a local birder, Rich. He found it last year (likely the same bird) and a birder from north of Colorado Springs, David, found the bird this year. SeEtta

More Golden-crowned Sparrow pics

These pics show upper parts and nape of the Golden-crowned Sparrow that is spending the winter near the parking area below the Tunnel Drive trail in the far west part of Canon City. The dark stripes and lack of white on it's nape are distinctive and make this bird appear darker (at least to me)when seen from the rear or side. Clearly these views are less distinctive than a view showing the head with the yellow medial fore-crown. I think it's a rather attractive bird, even with it's more muted winter plumage.

Golden-crowned Sparrows normally winter along the west coast, from northern Baja, Mexico to Canada with a sliver going up the lower Colorado River along western border of Arizona to Nevada. So one on the eastern slope of Colorado is far out of range. SeEtta

Golden-crowned Sparrow in Canon City

As I noted below a Golden-crowned Sparrow, found by another local birder Rich, has been seen around the parking area for the Tunnel Driver trail. I saw it the other day, but of all the dumb things, did not have my camera with me (and I had a great opportunity for good shot, darn). I returned today with a friend to help them find the bird and was able to get this pic. It's golden crown is quite prominent as seen in the pic. It's bi-colored bill can be seen, though not as well (wouldn't you know, my best shot was with the bird behind some weeds.

No sign of the Ladder-back Woodpecker I saw there earlier this week. Before we left a Sharp-shinned Hawk flew in after the juncos and sparrows, scattering the birds everywhere. I will post some pics of it tomorrow. SeEtta