White-throated Sparrow
NameWhite-throated Sparrow
Common NameWhite-throated Sparrow
Scientific NameZonotrichia albicollis
FamilyPasserellidae
Wingspan (cm)25
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)26
Plumage DetailsAdults have a striking head pattern with black and white stripes on the crown, a prominent white throat patch, and a bright yellow spot (lore) between the eye and bill. The back is streaked brown, wings are brown with two white wing bars, and the underparts are grayish, fading to white on the belly.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a clear, whistled 'Oh sweet Canada, Canada, Canada' or 'Poor Sam Peabody, Peabody, Peabody', often described as a series of three or four notes, with the last two or three repeated.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across Canada and the northeastern United States. Winters primarily in the southern United States and Mexico, with some populations remaining year-round in parts of the eastern U.S.
Identifying FeaturesWhite throat patch, Black and white striped crown, Yellow lores (spot between eye and bill), Brown streaked back, Grayish breast
Description
The White-throated Sparrow is a medium-sized sparrow known for its distinctive head pattern. It forages on the ground for seeds and insects, often scratching with both feet simultaneously. These birds are common in woodlands and shrubby areas, especially during migration and winter.
