Golden-crowned Sparrow (Zonotrichia atricapilla), Battiste B&B, Cochise County

This Golden-crowned Sparrow was photographed by Tony Battiste on 09 January 2010 and on 23 April 2010 in Hereford. 

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. There have been 3 reports in Hereford alone this winter

Yellow crown and gray bill separated this species from other similar sparrows. 

09 January 2010, photo by Tony Battiste
 

The photograph below was taken on the last date the bird was seen.  Note fresh alternate plumage compared to photographs above showing bird in adult winter plumage.

23 April 2010, photo by Tony Battiste

All photos are copyrighted© by photographer