Lincoln's Sparrow
NameLincoln's Sparrow
Common NameLincoln's Sparrow
Scientific NameMelospiza lincolnii
FamilyPasserellidae
Wingspan (cm)20.5
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)15
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are streaky brown with darker streaks. The most distinctive feature is a buffy breast band with fine, sharp streaks, contrasting with a white belly. The face is gray with a buffy malar stripe and a finely streaked crown.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a distinctive, bubbly, musical trill that often rises and falls in pitch. Calls include a soft 'zeet' or 'tseep'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, forest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across northern North America, including Alaska and Canada, and parts of the western and northeastern United States. Winters in the southern United States, Mexico, and Central America.
Identifying FeaturesFine, sharp streaks on a buffy breast band, Gray face with a buffy malar stripe, Streaky brown back, Secretive, skulking behavior
Description
The Lincoln's Sparrow is a small, secretive sparrow known for its finely streaked buffy breast band and gray face. It typically forages on the ground, often staying hidden in dense vegetation.
