American Tree Sparrow

Overview

The American tree sparrow, also known as the winter sparrow, is a medium-sized New World sparrow and the only member of the genus Spizelloides. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Adults have a rusty cap, grey underparts with a small dark spot on the breast, and a rusty back with lighter stripes.
• Face is grey with a rusty line through the eye; flanks are splashed with light brown.
• Length is approximately 5.5 in (14 cm) with a wingspan of 9.4 in (24 cm).
• Song is a sweet high warble that descends in pitch and becomes buzzy near the finish.

Habitat

Breeds in tundra or the northern limits of the boreal forest in Alaska and northern Canada, nesting on the ground. Winters in southern Canada and the Contiguous United States.

Diet

Forages on the ground or in low bushes, often in flocks when not nesting. Mainly eats seeds and insects, but also consumes some berries.

Did you know?

Despite laying one egg per day over a week, the hatching of the chicks is synchronised to within a few hours of each other, allowing all chicks to fledge and forage together.