Dickcissel
NameDickcissel
Common NameDickcissel
Scientific NameSpiza americana
FamilyCardinalidae
Wingspan (cm)24
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)30
Plumage DetailsAdult males have a gray head with a bright yellow supercilium, a yellow breast with a prominent black bib, and chestnut patches on the shoulders. Their back is streaked brown, and the belly is whitish. Females are duller, resembling a large sparrow, with less distinct yellow and often lacking the black bib, showing streaking on the flanks.
Vocalization / CallThe song is a distinctive, buzzy series of notes often transcribed as 'dick-dick-ciss-ciss-ciss' or 'dick-cissel'. They also give a sharp 'chip' call.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, agricultural
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across the central and eastern United States, primarily in the Great Plains. Winters in Central and South America, particularly in Venezuela and Colombia.
Identifying FeaturesYellow breast (male), Black bib (male), Chestnut shoulder patch (male), Gray head with yellow supercilium (male), Buzzy 'dick-ciss-ciss' song
Description
The Dickcissel is a small, sparrow-like bird, with males displaying a striking yellow breast and a prominent black bib. They are characteristic inhabitants of open grasslands and prairies, known for their distinctive, buzzy song.
