Golden-crowned Sparrow (Zonotrichia atricapilla), Sweetwater Wetlands, Pima County

This Golden-crowned Sparrow was discovered by Jake Mohlmann and photographed by Andrew Core on 05 November 2009 in the riverbed adjacent to Sweetwater Wetlands.

Golden-crowned Sparrow is a rare transient and winter visitor which however occurs annually.  It is most often found in large flocks of White-crowned Sparrows. 

When present (as in this bird) the yellow fore crown is diagnostic.  However, some immatures lack this feature.  For those birds the grayish bill is the best way to separate them quickly from White-crowned Sparrows. 

05 November 2009, photo by Andrew Core

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