Sisters Country birds

Lincoln's sparrow [Melospiza lincolnii] is similar to the more common song sparrow, and maintains a somewhat dull grey-and-brown appearance until a closer look is captured. Living in boggy grassy areas, the Lincoln's feeds on beetles, moths, mayflies and leafhoppers during the April-to-August breeding season. The remainder of the year seeds, buds and invertebrates are primary food sources.

In June a small nest is built of sedge, grasses, and soft hairs, three to five pale blue eggs are laid which hatch in 10-13 days. In 11 days the chicks are ready to fly. The Lincoln's sparrow song is a warbler-like trill that is sung frequently throughout the breeding season.

John J. Audubon named the Lincoln's sparrow in 1833 after a friend's son, Tom Lincoln. For more Lincoln's sparrow photos, visit www.abirdsingsbecauseithasasong.com/recent-journeys.