Lark Sparrow

Overview

The lark sparrow (Chondestes grammacus) is a fairly large New World sparrow and the sole member of the genus Chondestes. Classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, this species is characterised by a wide range across North America.

Identification

• Adults feature a dark-streaked brown back and white underparts with a distinctive dark central spot on the chest.
• The face has chestnut cheeks and crown sides, contrasted by a white eyebrow and crown stripes, while the dark tail has white corners.
• Measures 15–17 cm in length with a 28 cm wingspan.
• The song consists of two clear notes followed by a mixture of buzzes and trills, while the flight call is a thin sit.

Habitat

Breeding habitats include open areas such as grasslands and cultivated land. The range covers southern Canada, much of the United States, and northern Mexico, though it is rare in eastern regions where its range is contracting. Populations in Mexico and adjacent US states are resident, while others migrate to winter in the southern United States, Mexico, and Guatemala.

Diet

This species forages on the ground or in low bushes, primarily consuming seeds. During the breeding season, insects, including grasshoppers, are also part of the diet. They form flocks during migration or in winter.

Did you know?

Adult females are known to perform a distraction display to lure predators away from an occupied nest. The lark sparrow is also an occasional victim of brood parasitism by the brown-headed cowbird.