White-eared Ground-Sparrow
NameWhite-eared Ground-Sparrow
Common NameWhite-eared Ground-Sparrow
Scientific NameMelozone leucotis
FamilyPasserellidae
Wingspan (cm)23
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)33
Plumage DetailsThe head is black with a prominent white patch behind the eye, resembling an "ear," and a bright yellow patch on the side of the neck extending to the nape. The back and wings are olive-green, while the underparts are grey, transitioning to white on the belly. The bill is dark.
Vocalization / CallThe song is a series of clear, whistled notes, often accelerating into a trill, described as a sweet, clear "swee-swee-swee-tsee-tsee-tsee-tsee-tsee". Calls include a sharp "chip" or "tchip".
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Central America, specifically from southern Mexico (Chiapas) through Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua to northern Costa Rica.
Identifying Featuresblack head, white ear patch, bright yellow neck patch, olive-green back, grey chest, ground-foraging
Description
This striking ground-sparrow is characterized by its bold head pattern, featuring a black face with a prominent white patch behind the eye and a bright yellow patch on the side of the neck. It typically forages on or near the ground in dense undergrowth, often flicking leaves to find food.
