Five-striped Sparrow
NameFive-striped Sparrow
Common NameFive-striped Sparrow
Scientific NameAmphispizopsis quinquestriata
FamilyPasserellidae
Wingspan (cm)21.5
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)16
Plumage DetailsFeatures a gray head with a prominent white supercilium and malar stripe, separated by a black eye-stripe and a black stripe below the malar. It has a distinct black throat patch and a small black spot on the central breast. The back and wings are rufous-brown, while the underparts are gray, fading to whitish on the belly.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a series of clear, whistled notes, often described as 'sweet-sweet-sweet-chew-chew-chew' or similar, with variations in pitch and tempo. Calls include a sharp 'chip' note.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in a restricted range, primarily in southeastern Arizona (USA) and extending south into Sonora and Sinaloa (Mexico).
Identifying FeaturesFive distinct stripes on the head (white supercilium, black eye-stripe, white malar, black malar stripe), Black throat patch, Black breast spot, Rufous-brown back and wings
Description
This small sparrow is characterized by its striking head pattern and preference for arid, thorny scrublands. It is often secretive, foraging on the ground among dense vegetation, but will perch conspicuously to sing.
