Chaco Sparrow

Overview

The Chaco sparrow, or Rhynchospiza strigiceps, is a small passerine bird formerly known as the stripe-capped sparrow. It is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Identification

• Upper parts are light brown with darker streaks, rust, and grey.
• Underparts are pale grey, blending to buff on the flanks.
• Head features a grey base with cinnamon crown and postocular stripes, pale lores, and a black moustachial stripe.
• Song consists of complex trills.

Habitat

Found in the Gran Chaco region spanning south-central Paraguay to north-central Argentina. The species occupies low-elevation subtropical and tropical dry forests and shrubland up to 1,000 m.

Did you know?

The species was formerly considered the same as the Yungas sparrow, a relationship resolved by a 2020 taxonomic split that also changed its common name.