|
Savannah Sparrow (Passerculus sandwichensis)
FIELD MARKS
The Savannah Sparrow is not as shy as other sparrows and can easily be
watched. Its tail feathers are slightly forked with pointy tips. Both
male and female have brown upperparts with white and black streaks and
white underparts with black streaks on their breasts. They have distinctive
yellow bands over and in front of their eyes. Approximate length: 12 cm
HABITAT
The Savannah Sparrow lives in grasslands. It prefers open fields, meadows,
marshes, prairies and shores.
NESTING
This sparrow usually builds its nest on the ground, among tall grasses or
weeds. The nest is made of grass and lined with finer grass. It is often
placed so it is covered by overhanging grass or dead plant material and
the entrance is concealed. The female lays 2-6 whitish or greenish eggs
with brown marks at the larger end.
STATUS
Common and widespread for the most part, but some coastal populations declining
due to loss of marsh habitat.
DISTRIBUTION
|
