[Smithers]

This bird showed up on my balcony near the West Vancouver Seawall in the midmorning. It seemed to be investigating the cavities of the railing. I would say that it's about the size of a song sparrow. (The vertical measurement of the opening, measured on the left, is 1 1/4". )

I see a short stubby bill with yellow on the bottom. Some yellow on the side of the bill. Grey around and in front of dark eyes. A yellowish-brown stripe behind the eye. Dark grey or brown crown. Very pale brownish chin and underparts. Dark brown markings on the upper wings. A square tail.

After looking through Birds of Western Canada, I don't have a guess for this one...
To me it looks like a finch, but it doesn't match any finch photos I see online, even for immature ones.

[BirdingBC]

Hi Smithers,

Appears to be a female House Sparrow (species introduced from Europe). This species is known to start nesting from February (now) until June. It has a more finch link bill vs other North American Sparrows and well adapted to urban city life.

Cheers,

[Smithers]

Thanks Kevin,

I see it in my book now.

There is at least one male that has been around lately (see photo in the challenge), which I see and definitely hear.

Again, a little more education for me...

Smithers