Rusty Sparrow
NameRusty Sparrow
Common NameRusty-crowned Ground-Sparrow
Scientific NameMelozone kieneri
FamilyPasserellidae
Wingspan (cm)21.5
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)30
Plumage DetailsAdults display a rich rusty-red crown and nape, extending to the upper back. The back and wings are rusty-brown, while the underparts are plain gray, becoming whitish on the belly. The face features a white supercilium, a dark loral line, and a prominent black malar stripe contrasting with a white throat. The bill is dark and the legs are pinkish-gray.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a series of clear, whistled notes, often accelerating and descending, described as 'chip-chip-chip-cheer-cheer-cheer-chew-chew'. Calls include sharp 'chip' or 'tseep' notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to western Mexico, ranging from southern Sonora south through Sinaloa, Nayarit, Jalisco, Colima, Michoacán, and Guerrero, to Oaxaca.
Identifying FeaturesRusty-red crown and nape, Prominent black malar stripe, White supercilium, Plain gray underparts, Rusty-brown back and wings, Ground-dwelling behavior
Description
This medium-sized ground-sparrow is characterized by its distinctive rusty-red crown and nape, contrasting with plain gray underparts. It typically forages on the ground in dense undergrowth of dry forests and scrublands, often scratching through leaf litter for food.
