randybodkins's Identifications

I believe the reason I was able to get so close to this Song Sparrow was that it was defending its nest in the lakeside brush. It (and perhaps its mate) persistently confronted me with alarm notes multiple times as I walked by (audio recording with my phone included above, along with photos), and stood its ground rather than fleeing. I think the last photo may be the other individual of a mated pair that both tried to drive me away - and succeeded. I moved on quickly once I realized what must be going on.

Song Sparrows are among the most abundant birds in these parts. They are indeed incredible songsters, will visit bird tables for seeds, and are pretty easily observed in the landscape. This was an opportunity to briefly see them at unusually close range. I did not however annoy them further by lingering to search for their nest.