Fox Sparrow
NameFox Sparrow
Common NameFox Sparrow
Scientific NamePasserella iliaca
FamilyPasserellidae
Wingspan (cm)28.5
Length (cm)17
Weight (g)33
Plumage DetailsPlumage varies by subspecies, but generally features a reddish-brown back and wings, a prominent rufous tail, and heavy reddish-brown streaking on a white breast and flanks. The head can be grayish with brown streaking or more uniformly brown, and the bill is typically bicolored with a dark upper mandible and yellowish lower mandible.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a rich, varied series of clear, whistled notes, often starting with a clear whistle and becoming complex. Calls include a sharp 'chip' or 'tseet'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across northern North America, including Alaska, Canada, and parts of the western and northeastern U.S. Winters primarily in the southern and western U.S., and northern Mexico.
Identifying Featureslarge size for a sparrow, heavily streaked underparts, prominent rufous tail, bicolored bill, two-footed scratching foraging behavior
Description
A large, chunky sparrow known for its rich reddish-brown tail and heavily streaked underparts. It often forages on the ground, vigorously kicking leaf litter with both feet to uncover food.
