Grasshopper Sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum), Canada del Oro Wash on eastern boundary of SaddleBrooke Preserve, Pinal County

This Grasshopper Sparrow was photographed by Bob Bowers on 09 October 2011

Although Grasshopper Sparrow is is a common breeding resident in the grasslands of the most southeastern part of the state, it is only casual in Pinal County.
No prior sightings documented near the area of this sighting.

Scaly back and short, spiked tail mark this as an Ammodramus sparrow. The complete white eye ring, lack of a dark lateral throat stripe, white median crown stripe and rufous spots on the back are good marks here for Grasshopper Sparrow.

 09 October 2011, photo by Bob Bowers