# 4352a - 2008 42c Gr. Lakes Dunes Vesper Sparrow
U.S. #4352a
Great Lakes Dunes
Vesper Sparrows
Nature of America Series
Issue Date: October 2, 2008
City: Empire, MI
Vesper sparrows are known for their evening songs. The birds were named after the Roman goddess Venus, the “Evening Star.” Often, male sparrows find a high perch, such as a shrub or fencepost, to declare their ownership of a nesting territory. The sparrow’s song is made up of two to four long, clear notes, followed by a series of slurs and trills.
These birds adapt easily to changes in habitat and are noted for being the first creatures to arrive in reclaimed mine sites and forests. Mother sparrows are very protective of their chicks, often causing diversions to keep them safe. When their chicks or nest are in danger, the mothers will fly away slowly or fake an injury to distract predators and allow their chicks to find safety.
When unthreatened, vesper sparrows commonly travel on the ground, despite being good flyers. If approached cautiously, these small birds won’t fly away, but will rather run along the path. They will normally run ahead of observers, occasionally stopping to look around. When courting, the male sparrows can be seen running along the ground with wings raised and tail spread. They will occasionally take short flights and sing before returning to the ground and running again.
U.S. #4352a
Great Lakes Dunes
Vesper Sparrows
Nature of America Series
Issue Date: October 2, 2008
City: Empire, MI
Vesper sparrows are known for their evening songs. The birds were named after the Roman goddess Venus, the “Evening Star.” Often, male sparrows find a high perch, such as a shrub or fencepost, to declare their ownership of a nesting territory. The sparrow’s song is made up of two to four long, clear notes, followed by a series of slurs and trills.
These birds adapt easily to changes in habitat and are noted for being the first creatures to arrive in reclaimed mine sites and forests. Mother sparrows are very protective of their chicks, often causing diversions to keep them safe. When their chicks or nest are in danger, the mothers will fly away slowly or fake an injury to distract predators and allow their chicks to find safety.
When unthreatened, vesper sparrows commonly travel on the ground, despite being good flyers. If approached cautiously, these small birds won’t fly away, but will rather run along the path. They will normally run ahead of observers, occasionally stopping to look around. When courting, the male sparrows can be seen running along the ground with wings raised and tail spread. They will occasionally take short flights and sing before returning to the ground and running again.