Grasshopper Sparrow
NameGrasshopper Sparrow
Common NameGrasshopper Sparrow
Scientific NameAmmodramus savannarum
FamilyPasserellidae
Wingspan (cm)18.5
Length (cm)12.5
Weight (g)16.5
Plumage DetailsThis sparrow has streaky brown upperparts with a buffy breast and unstreaked whitish belly. Key features include a flat head, a short tail, a pale median crown stripe, and often a small yellow patch at the bend of the wing and/or above the lore.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a distinctive, insect-like buzz, often compared to the sound of a grasshopper, typically starting with a few faint notes followed by a long, unmusical trill.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across much of the United States and southern Canada, migrating to the southern U.S., Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean for the winter.
Identifying FeaturesFlat-headed appearance, Short tail, Unstreaked buffy breast, Yellow patch at bend of wing/lores (variable), Insect-like buzzing song
Description
The Grasshopper Sparrow is a small, secretive grassland bird known for its flat-headed appearance and short tail. It typically forages on the ground for insects and seeds, often remaining hidden in dense vegetation.
