Sighting Record for Utah

Common name:	Lark Bunting
Scientific name:	Calamospiza melanocorys
Date:	9-10-23
Time:	9:30am
Length of time observed:	2 minutes
Number:	1
Age:	Possible juvenile
Sex:	Possible female
Location:	Garr ranch
County:	Davis
Latilong:
Elevation:
Distance to bird:	50 feet
Optical equipment:	Nikon monarch binoculars 8x40,
Weather:	Sunny
Light Conditions:	Full sun
Description: Size of bird:	Approximately 6 inches
(Description:) Basic Shape:	Sparrow
(Description:) Overall Pattern:	gray
(Description:) Bill Type:	Conical
(Description:) Field Marks and Identifying Characteristics:	I noticed a large flock of sparrows along a fence line. As I approached, I realized this flock was Vesper sparrows. However, one sparrow stood out due to its bulkier appearance. Given my regular observations of Lark buntings in Albany County, Wyoming, I wondered if it might be a Lark bunting. Its identification traits seemed to match: it had a silver bill, a white throat patch, and distinct white wing bars (as seen in photo #3 [Photo C]). The breast displayed heavy streaking, which could suggest it was either a female or a juvenile
Song or call & method of delivery:	Silent
Behavior:	Perched on fence wire
Habitat:	Dried grass
Similar species and how were they eliminated:	The bunting was larger than expected for a Vesper sparrow or other similarly colored sparrows. Considering the characteristics of the Calcariidae family, which lack large white wing patches, Thick-billed, Chestnut-collared, and Lapland longspurs can be ruled out.
Previous experience with this & similar species:	Summers in Eastern Wyoming.
References consulted:	eBird database and National Wildlife Federation Field Guide to Birds of North America
Description from:	Notes made later From photo(s) taken at the time of the sighting
Observer:	Colin Maguire
Observer's address:	1262 N Nola Circle
Observer's e-mail address:	**
Other observers who independently identified this bird:
Date prepared:	9-29-23
Additional material:	Photos
Additional comments: