The sociable personality of the Chipping Sparrow enables the bird
student to make his close acquaintance. He is a little bird of modest
habits, who shows his trust in the human race by living very near to the
homes of man. In early April "Chippy" arrives. He leaves for the South
about the first of November.
Song: "_Chippy--Chippy--Chippy_" is all this small Sparrow has to say.
Certainly, this is not an especially attractive song, and yet it
is very much in keeping with the unassuming disposition of the
bird. It could scarcely be called a song. It is an extremely high
pitched note with very little musical quality. Nevertheless,
somewhat monotonous though the songs may be, they seem to have a
peculiarly friendly air, that, at times, is very welcome.
Food: Injurious insects are eaten in large quantities by the Chipping
Sparrows. Beetles, grasshoppers and other similar insects are the
prey of this bird. Many different types of seeds constitute the
rest of the diet. "Chippy" will readily accept human hospitality
whenever crumbs are scattered, provided, of course, that the
English Sparrow does not arrive at the feeding station first.
Nest: The nest of the Chipping Sparrow is built in bushes, shrubs,
trees, or in the old vines that grow about country houses. The
nest is lined with long hairs. One often wonders where the bird
finds so many of them. Grass and fine twigs are used for the main
construction of the home.
Remarks: The little chestnut cap of the Chipping Sparrow is perhaps his
most noticeable marking. By this, and by his small size, he may be
readily identified. He is sometimes called the "Least" Sparrow.
Like some other members of the Sparrow family, he sometimes awakes
in the middle of the night and bursts into song.
[Illustration: _The Chipping Sparrow or "Chippy"--5¼ inches_]