Posted by Chad DeVoe on March 17, 2006

Q: I live in Central NY. When do Tree sparrows fly back North fopr the spring?

A: I also live in central New York state and had only a very few American Tree Sparrows at my feeder this winter. These sparrows winter all across the northern part of the U.S. but nest in northern Canada and Alaska. If these sparrows had been coming regularly to my feeder, I might have noticed their departure date and could help you out, but not this year. If you can find a birder who keeps a list of their daily observations (those birds at their feeders), they might be able to give you a last date seen for this species. Of course, the last date seen at one's feeder does not necessarily mean they've begun their journey north but it helps. Sorry I can't provide more help with this. Thanks for asking.

John Wiessinger ( March 18, 2006)

A: Chad,

I felt bad that I couldn't give you more information about Tree Sparrows - I wasn't trying to ignore your question. However, I did see a couple of Tree Sparrows at my feeder this morning (Monday, March 20) so they're still in central NY.

One big problem in determining when a given species leaves an area is that just because you don't see them, doesn't mean they're not around somewhere. I think last night's snow covered much of their feeding area so this has pushed the Tree Sparrows back to feeders. Take care.

John Wiessinger ( March 20, 2006)