An Activity Guide About the Songbirds of British Columbia Family EMBERIZIDAE: Buntings & Sparrows

Fox Sparrow (Passerella iliaca ) uses bird feeders FIELD MARKS The Fox Sparrow is slightly larger than most sparrows. The colouration of these sparrows varies over its range. Fox Sparrows on the coast are mostly chocolate brown with some reddish-brown patches especially on their wings and tail. They have white underparts that are heavily streaked with reddish-brown and chestnut blotches. Fox Sparrows in the interior are somewhat lighter in colour. The Fox Sparrow is sometimes mistaken for the similar looking Song Sparrow. The easiest way to distinguish the two sparrows apart is by the Fox Sparrow's yellow lower bill. Both the male and female Fox Sparrow look similar. Approximate length: 16 cm FOOD Their main diet is of seeds and insects as well as some berries. They feed mostly on the ground and are often seen scratching away debre to expose seeds or insects under the leaves. On the coast they are often seen in tidal areas feeding on crustaceans and other marine life. They often frequent bird feeders but still perfer to feed on the seeds on the ground. HABITAT This sparrow is usually found on the ground in the underbrush of wooded areas. NESTING Its nest are usually on the ground under dense shrubs. Sometimes the Fox Sparrow nests in shrubs or low trees. The nests are made of grass, weeds, twigs and moss, lined with dry grass. The female lays 2-5 pale green eggs that are heavily marked with reddish brown. STATUS Stable. DISTRIBUTION