Northern Rough-winged Swallow

Scientific Name: Stelgidopteryx serripennis

Population Estimate: 15M

Range / Habitat: Summers in the entire US. Can winter in parts along the Gulf Coast but primarily found in the Yucatan and Central America. Favors inland wetlands including rivers and streams. 

Field Notes: Somewhat dull plumage for a swallow -- brown above and white below. It is similar to a Sand Martin but without the brown band across the chest.

Personal Notes: As our birding skills have increased we have been able to identify this bird on our own. We required a guide the first few times in San Blas, Mexico and Salt Lake City. By the time we saw this bird in Minnesota, it was an old friend.

Field Sparrow

Scientific Name: Spizella pusilla

Population Estimate: 8M, Least Concern status

Range / Habitat: "Old-field" sparrows, found year-round in the southeastern US. In winters extending a bit south, and in summers up to the Canadian border.

Field Notes: Clear-breasted sparrow with rusty cap parted by a grey strip, white eye ring, pale pink bill, and rufous strip behind the eye. Face is otherwise bland grey. Call a distinctive, accelerating trill.

Personal Notes: