White-crowned Sparrow
NameWhite-crowned Sparrow
Common NameWhite-crowned Sparrow
Scientific NameZonotrichia leucophrys
FamilyPasserellidae
Wingspan (cm)24
Length (cm)16.5
Weight (g)27.5
Plumage DetailsAdults have a prominent black and white striped crown, a plain gray face, and a yellow bill. Their underparts are gray, and their back is streaky brown with darker streaks. Juveniles have a similar pattern but with brown and tan stripes on the head.
Vocalization / CallTheir song is a clear, whistled series of notes, often starting with a clear whistle followed by buzzy trills. Common calls include a sharp 'chip' note.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban, coastal, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across Alaska, Canada, and the western United States. Winters throughout much of the United States and northern Mexico, with some populations resident in parts of the western US.
Identifying Featuresblack and white striped crown, plain gray face, yellow bill, streaky brown back
Description
The White-crowned Sparrow is a medium-sized sparrow known for its distinctive black and white striped crown. These birds are often seen foraging on the ground or in low vegetation, scratching through leaf litter for seeds and insects. They are migratory, breeding in northern regions and wintering across much of the United States and Mexico.
