Sagebrush Sparrow
NameSagebrush Sparrow
Common NameSagebrush Sparrow
Scientific NameArtemisiospiza nevadensis
FamilyPasserellidae
Wingspan (cm)20.5
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)14
Plumage DetailsAdults have a gray head with a prominent white eye-ring and a dark lore. The back is streaked brown, and the underparts are plain gray with a white throat bordered by a dark malar stripe. Wings are dark with two faint wing bars.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a series of buzzy notes and trills, often starting with a few clear chips. Calls include a sharp 'chip' or 'tseep' note.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the Great Basin and intermountain west of North America, from southeastern Washington and southern Idaho south to eastern California and Nevada. Winters in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
Identifying Featuresgray head, white eye-ring, dark lore, dark malar stripe, streaked brown back, plain gray breast, preference for sagebrush habitat
Description
The Sagebrush Sparrow is a small, drab sparrow characterized by its gray head and distinctive facial pattern. It typically forages on the ground and in low shrubs, often flicking its tail, in arid sagebrush habitats.
