The best times to observe sparrows in Wisconsin are during summer or the migration seasons of spring and fall, as many species breed in the state or pass through on their way to northern breeding grounds.
This comprehensive manual will assist you in visually and audibly identifying all 20 species of sparrows that can be found in Wisconsin. It also provides information on the optimal time of year to spot them, along with some intriguing facts.
Investing time to become acquainted with these lively little songbirds, which you will frequently encounter and hear, is well worth it. This guide includes Juncos and Towhees as they are also considered sparrows.
Bird enthusiasts often refer to sparrows as “little brown jobs,” indicating that even experienced birders may struggle to identify them.
Many sparrows possess distinct head markings and engage in migratory patterns, allowing for their exclusion during certain periods of the year. This guide incorporates these crucial identification tips.
Sparrows predominantly feed on seeds and insects, making them frequent visitors to backyard feeders. Discover other bird species that frequently visit Wisconsin and obtain a complimentary identification chart.
This guide provides assistance in identifying regularly occurring species of sparrows in Wisconsin, based on information from avibase and data collected by bird watchers on ebird.
Knowing the optimal time for spotting sparrows in Wisconsin helps eliminate guesswork when observing these visually similar birds. This guide organizes the birds based on the most likely periods for sighting them.
Sparrows in Wisconsin throughout the year:
– House Sparrow
Sparrows in Wisconsin during winter:
– Dark-eyed Junco
– American Tree Sparrow
Sparrows in Wisconsin during summer:
– Song Sparrow
– Chipping Sparrow
– Eastern Towhee
– Swamp Sparrow
– Field Sparrow
– Savannah Sparrow
– Clay-colored Sparrow
– Vesper Sparrow
– Grasshopper Sparrow
– Henslow’s Sparrow
– Lark Sparrow
Sparrows in Wisconsin during migration:
– White-throated Sparrow
– White-crowned Sparrow
– Fox Sparrow
– Lincoln’s Sparrow
– Harris’s Sparrow
– LeConte’s Sparrow
Identifying the Songs of Sparrows
By familiarizing yourself with the audio recordings in this guide, you can learn the distinctive songs of various sparrows, which aids in identification. For instance, the White-throated Sparrow produces a melodic series of long, slow notes resembling a whistling human.
The Field Sparrow’s song starts slow and accelerates into a high-pitched trill, often compared to a bouncing ball coming to a stop.
Have you ever heard the peculiar buzzing of a Grasshopper Sparrow or LeConte’s Sparrow?
Sparrows in Wisconsin All Year
1. House Sparrow
House Sparrows, an introduced species in Wisconsin, can be found throughout the year. They do not migrate and are present in approximately 23% of summer checklists and 27% of winter checklists.
House Sparrows, now one of the most prevalent birds in North America, have gray and brown heads with white cheeks and a black bib. Their backs are black and brown, while their bellies are gray. Female House Sparrows are browner overall and lack the black bib.
Passer domesticus
Length: 5.9-6.7 in (15-17 cm)
Weight: 0.9-1.1 oz (27-30 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-9.8 in (19-25 cm)
House Sparrows reside year-round in the United States and southern Canada.
You can often find House Sparrows near residential and commercial buildings, and they may become quite comfortable, even feeding from your hand. However, their presence can pose challenges to native bird species, as they occupy the best nesting sites before the arrival of native birds.
House Sparrows primarily consume grains, seeds, and discarded food. Although they are considered pests due to their non-native status, they can still be found in backyards even without being intentionally fed.
House Sparrow vocalizations consist of a simple series of notes.
Credit: Olivier SWIFT, XC697951. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/697951.
House Sparrow nests are concealed in small openings within buildings or dense vegetation, as well as in nest boxes. They are constructed using dry grass and plant materials, lined with feathers and soft materials.
They lay up to eight eggs per brood, with up to four broods produced each year. The eggs hatch in under two weeks, and the chicks fledge in approximately two weeks.
Attract House Sparrows to your backyard feeders by offering a variety of birdseed, including millet, corn, and sunflower seeds.
Fun fact: In addition to North America, House Sparrows have been introduced to South America, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
Sparrows in Wisconsin in Summer
1. Song Sparrow
During summer in Wisconsin, Song Sparrows are the most commonly sighted sparrows. They are prevalent during the breeding season, which spans from March to October, although some individuals can be observed year-round in the southern part of the state.
Song Sparrows feature predominantly brown-streaked plumage, lacking the vibrant appearance of other backyard birds. However, they rely on their nearly continuous song to attract mates during the spring and summer.
Melospiza melodia
Length: 4.7-6.7 in (12-17 cm)
Weight: 0.4-1.9 oz (12-53 g)
Wingspan: 7.1-9.4 in (18-24 cm)
Song Sparrows reside year-round in the northern United States. Canadian-breeding individuals migrate to southern states for the winter.
You can spot Song Sparrows in open, shrubby, and wet areas, often perched on low shrubs while singing. They are also frequent visitors to backyard feeders.
Song Sparrows have a diverse diet, including various insects and plants such as beetles, caterpillars, midges, spiders, and earthworms. They also consume buckwheat, sunflower seeds, raspberries, wild cherries, blackberries, wheat, and rice.
Song Sparrow vocalizations consist of a series of unconnected buzzing, trills, and notes, rather than a melodious song. They also emit sharp alarm calls and chatter when in groups.
Credit: Christopher McPherson, XC692182. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/692182.
Song Sparrow nests are woven from grass and other plant materials, lined with soft grass and hair. They lay up to six eggs, which hatch in approximately two weeks, and the young fledge in less than two weeks.
Attract Song Sparrows to your backyard by providing black oil sunflower seeds, cracked corn, and nyjer on platform feeders.
Fun fact: Research has shown that Song Sparrows mix their song repertoire, avoiding repetition to avoid potentially boring prospective mates.
2. Chipping Sparrow
Chipping Sparrows can be observed in Wisconsin during the breeding season and appear in approximately 33% of summer checklists. They are most commonly seen from April to October.
These slender sparrows possess grayish bellies and brown and black-streaked backs, accompanied by rusty crowns and black eye lines. In winter, their colors become more subdued.
Spizella passerina
Length: 4.7-5.9in (12-15 cm)
Weight: 0.4-0.6 oz (11-16 g)
Wingspan: 8.3 in (21 cm)
Chipping Sparrows breed in the United States and Canada during the summer before migrating to Mexico and Florida for the winter. Some individuals remain year-round in southern states.
You can find Chipping Sparrows in small flocks on the ground, often in wooded areas and parks with trees.
Chipping Sparrow vocalizations are characterized by a sharp “chip” call, which gives them their name. Their distinctive song consists of a stuttering trill.
Credit: Richard E. Webster, XC611297. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/611297.
Chipping Sparrow nests are situated off the ground, concealed within trees or shrubs. Females construct the nests using dried grass and small roots, resulting in basic and less densely structured nests.
They lay up to seven eggs per brood, producing up to three broods per year. The eggs hatch in approximately two weeks, and the young fledge in under two weeks.
Attract Chipping Sparrows to your backyard with seeds or cracked corn placed on open feeders, such as hoppers or platforms.
Fun fact: A group of Chipping Sparrows is referred to as a “tournament.”
3. Eastern Towhee
Eastern Towhees can be observed in Wisconsin during the breeding season, spanning from April to October. They are recorded in approximately 13% of summer checklists.
Eastern Towhees, larger sparrows resembling robins in size, exhibit black heads, throats, and backs, reddish sides, long tails, and white bellies in males. Females display a similar pattern but with brown replacing black.
Pipilo erythrophthalmus
Length: 6.8-8.2 in (17.3-20.8 cm)
Weight: 1.1-1.8 oz (32-52 g)
Wingspan: 7.9-11.0 in (20-28 cm)
Eastern Towhees reside year-round in the southeastern United States, with northern populations migrating south for winter.
You can find Eastern Towhees foraging in the undergrowth and along the edges of forests and thickets.
Eastern Towhee vocalizations consist of a sharp note followed by a trill.
Credit: Christopher McPherson, XC691323. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/691323.
Eastern Towhee nests are typically situated on the ground, hidden among fallen leaves. Constructed from twigs, bark, and leaves, the nests are lined with soft grass and animal hair. They lay up to six eggs, which hatch in just under two weeks, and the young require an additional week or two to fledge.
Attract Eastern Towhees to your backyard with overgrown borders and platform feeders offering black oil sunflower seeds, hulled sunflower seeds, cracked corn, and millet.
Fun fact: Eastern Towhees are fond of sunlit areas and are often found on south-facing slopes.
4. Swamp Sparrow
Swamp Sparrows are observable in Wisconsin during the breeding season, which spans from April to October. They are documented in approximately 10% of summer checklists, while a few individuals remain year-round in the southeastern part of the state.
Swamp Sparrows feature dark brown backs with rusty crowns and wings. They possess gray breasts, white throats, gray heads, brown faces with a dark eye line, and yellow beak tips.
Melospiza georgiana
Length: 4.7-5.9 in (12-15 cm)
Weight: 0.5-0.8 oz (15-23 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-9.1 in (19-23 cm)
Swamp Sparrows breed in the northeastern United States and eastern Canada during the summer before migrating to the southeastern United States for the winter.
You can locate Swamp Sparrows in marshy areas with dense vegetation, cattails, and other wetland plants.
Swamp Sparrow vocalizations include a series of buzzing and trilling notes, resembling an insect or a bouncing ball.
Credit: Richard E. Webster, XC659830. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/659830.
Swamp Sparrow nests are situated near or on the ground within marsh vegetation. Constructed using grasses, sedges, and other plant materials, the nests are lined with fine grass. They lay up to six eggs per brood, with up to three broods produced each year. The eggs hatch in under two weeks, and the young fledge in approximately two weeks.
Attract Swamp Sparrows to your backyard with dense shrubbery and provide a mix of seeds, such as millet, cracked corn, and sunflower seeds.
Fun fact: Swamp Sparrows build their nests near the ground to minimize the risk of flooding and predation.
5. Field Sparrow
Field Sparrows can be observed in Wisconsin during the breeding season, which spans from April to October. They are present in approximately 19% of summer checklists.
Field Sparrows exhibit a reddish-brown crown, gray face and breast, white eye rings, and a pink bill. Their backs are brown and streaked, while their bellies are white or pale yellow.
Spizella pusilla
Length: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.5 oz (10-15 g)
Wingspan: 7.1 in (18 cm)
Field Sparrows breed in the eastern United States and southern Canada during the summer before migrating to the southeastern United States for the winter.
You can spot Field Sparrows in grassy fields, open areas, and shrubby habitats.
Field Sparrow vocalizations consist of a series of high-pitched, accelerating trills.
Credit: Richard E. Webster, XC462375. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/462375.
Field Sparrow nests are typically situated on or near the ground, concealed within dense vegetation or grass. Constructed from grasses, leaves, bark strips, and rootlets, the nests are lined with fine grass and hair. They lay up to five eggs per brood, with up to three broods produced each year. The eggs hatch in under two weeks, and the young fledge in less than two weeks.
Attract Field Sparrows to your backyard with grassy areas, dense shrubbery, and provide a mix of seeds, such as millet, cracked corn, and sunflower seeds.
Fun fact: Field Sparrows are known to engage in a behavior called “anting,” where they pick up ants and rub them on their feathers. This behavior may help control parasites.
6. Savannah Sparrow
Savannah Sparrows can be sighted in Wisconsin during the breeding season, from April to October. They are observed in approximately 8% of summer checklists.
Savannah Sparrows are small birds with brown plumage and a distinct yellow patch near the eye. They possess short tails and exhibit streaks of brown on their backs.
Passerculus sandwichensis
Length: 4.7-5.9 in (12-15 cm)
Weight: 0.5-1.0 oz (15-28 g)
Wingspan: 7.9-8.7 in (20-22 cm)
Savannah Sparrows breed in Canada and the northern United States before migrating to southern US states and Mexico for the winter.
You can find Savannah Sparrows foraging on the ground in open areas such as grasslands, meadows, and fields, where they search for insects and seeds.
Savannah Sparrow vocalizations consist of a few fast notes followed by a buzzing trill.
Credit: Christopher McPherson, XC659859. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/659859.
Savannah Sparrow nests are built on or near the ground, hidden within vegetation. Constructed from grass, plant stems, and rootlets, the nests are lined with finer materials. They lay up to six eggs per brood, with an incubation period of around two weeks. The young sparrows take an additional one to two weeks to fledge.
While Savannah Sparrows do not frequently visit feeders, they may visit yards with ample vegetation and proximity to fields.
Fun fact: Despite being one of the most common songbirds in North America, Savannah Sparrows are considered a threatened species by the IUCN.
7. Clay-colored Sparrow
Clay-colored Sparrows spend the breeding season in Wisconsin and can be observed from April to October. They are recorded in approximately 6% of summer checklists.
Clay-colored Sparrows, primarily found in the northern prairies and Great Plains, possess distinctive head markings. They feature a gray collar around the neck, notched tails, and brown and white streaked backs.
Spizella pallida
Length: 5.1-6.3 in (13-16 cm)
Weight: 0.4-0.5 oz (12-14 g)
Wingspan: 7.5 in (19 cm)
Clay-colored Sparrows breed in Canada and the northern Great Plains before migrating to Texas and Mexico for the winter.
You can spot Clay-colored Sparrows in shrublands, where they search for seeds, leaf buds, and insects.
Clay-colored Sparrow vocalizations consist of a two-note buzzing sound.
Credit: Richard E. Webster, XC186813. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/186813.
Clay-colored Sparrow nests are typically located close to the ground, hidden within vegetation. Constructed from grass, twigs, and wildflowers, the nests are lined with finer grasses and animal hair.
They lay up to five eggs per brood, with an incubation period of around two weeks. The young sparrows fledge within a week or two.
Attract Clay-colored Sparrows to your backyard with cracked corn, hulled sunflower seeds, and millet.
Fun fact: Young Clay-colored Sparrows leave the nest before they are capable of flight and rely on running for cover when faced with danger.
8. Vesper Sparrow
Vesper Sparrows can be spotted in the southern part of Wisconsin during the breeding season, which spans from April to September.
Vesper Sparrows are small sparrows characterized by their brownish plumage with white streaks on the back. They possess
white bellies and long tails.
Pooecetes gramineus
Length: 5.9-6.7 in (15-17 cm)
Weight: 0.8-1.2 oz (24-33 g)
Wingspan: 11.0 in (28 cm)
Vesper Sparrows breed in various US states except the eastern region, as well as in some southern Canadian provinces. They spend the winter in Mexico, although some populations along the Pacific Coast, particularly in California, remain year-round.
You can find Vesper Sparrows in grasslands, open fields, and pastures, often on the ground.
Vesper Sparrow vocalizations consist of a few low whistles followed by a series of rising and falling trills.
Credit: Peter Ward and Ken Hall, XC596715. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/596715.
Vesper Sparrow nests are constructed by both male and female sparrows. They are situated on the ground, in low trees, or even in crevices on rocky cliffs.
The nests are open cups made of grass, weeds, and twigs, and they may contain up to six eggs per brood. The incubation period is approximately twelve days, and the young sparrows fledge within ten days.
Attract Vesper Sparrows to your backyard by providing a habitat with open grassy areas and offering a variety of seeds.
Fun fact: Male Vesper Sparrows engage in a unique courtship behavior, dancing for approximately five minutes while raising their wings and leaping into the air, all while singing to attract females.
9. Grasshopper Sparrow
Grasshopper Sparrows are occasionally spotted in Wisconsin during the breeding season, typically from April to October. They are recorded in approximately 1% of summer checklists.
Grasshopper Sparrows are small birds with light and dark brown streaks on their backs and a distinctive orange or yellow stripe above their eyes. They have short tails, large bills, and pale bellies.
Ammodramus savannarum
Length: 4.3-4.5 in (10.8-11.5 cm)
Weight: 0.5-0.7 oz (14-20 g)
Wingspan: 7.9 in (20 cm)
Grasshopper Sparrows breed in central and eastern regions of the United States, including parts of California’s coast and northwestern states. During winter, they migrate to southeastern states, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
You can find Grasshopper Sparrows on the ground in grasslands, prairies, and other open areas. They primarily feed on grasshoppers, insects, spiders, and in winter, fallen seeds.
Grasshopper Sparrow vocalizations consist of a buzzy, insect-like song, from which they derive their name.
Credit: Christopher McPherson, XC601033. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/601033.
Grasshopper Sparrow nests are typically situated on the ground amidst vegetation. They are constructed using grasses, twigs, and other plant materials, often weaving surrounding stalks to create a roof and incorporating an entrance on the side.
Each brood may consist of up to seven eggs, and Grasshopper Sparrows can have up to four broods during the breeding season. The incubation period is approximately two weeks, and the young sparrows fledge in one to two weeks.
Fun Fact: Grasshopper Sparrows exhibit an interesting feeding behavior, as they vigorously shake their grasshopper prey to remove the large legs before feeding the remaining body to their young.
10. Henslow’s Sparrow
Henslow’s Sparrows, although not commonly found in Wisconsin, can occasionally be spotted in the southern part of the state during the breeding season, which extends from April to October. They are recorded in approximately 1% of summer checklists.
Henslow’s Sparrows have unique physical characteristics that enable them to hide effectively in their natural environment. They feature greenish faces with distinct black stripes, pale chests, white bellies with slight streaking, and reddish backs.
Centronyx henslowi
Length: 4.75-5.25 in (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.5 oz (14 g)
Wingspan: 7.1-7.5 in (18-19 cm)
Henslow’s Sparrows breed in northeastern states of the US before migrating to southeastern states for the winter.
You can find Henslow’s Sparrows in wet and weedy grasslands, dense grasses, and tall vegetation. However, their natural habitat is gradually diminishing, causing them to adapt to abandoned fields, pastures, and areas with dense, tall grasslands.
Henslow’s Sparrows primarily feed on seeds, such as sedges, ragweed, and smartweed, during the winter. In the summer, they supplement their diet with insects like grasshoppers and caterpillars. Occasionally, they also consume berries.
Henslow’s Sparrow vocalizations consist of a series of buzzy notes and trills.
Credit: Matt Wistrand, XC571344. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/571344.
Henslow’s Sparrow nests are made of grass and wildflowers, typically
placed in slight hollows or at the base of dense grass clumps. The female is responsible for constructing the nest using twigs, grass, and weed stalks, lining it with finer grasses and animal hair.
Each nest contains three to five eggs, which are incubated for approximately eleven days. The young sparrows take around ten days to fledge, and they continue to receive parental care even after leaving the nest for a short period.
Fun Fact: Henslow’s Sparrows prefer running through dense grass rather than flying when faced with danger, using their natural camouflage to evade potential threats.
11. Lark Sparrow
Lark Sparrows are not commonly found in Wisconsin but can be found in the southern part of the state during the breeding season, typically from April to September.
These small sparrows exhibit distinct features, including a brown and white striped crown, brown-streaked back, white belly, and brown, white-edged tail.
Chondestes grammacus
Length: 5.9-6.7 in (15-17 cm)
Weight: 0.8-1.2 oz (24-33 g)
Wingspan: 11.0 in (28 cm)
Lark Sparrows breed in most US states except the eastern region. Some populations also breed in certain southern Canadian provinces. They spend the winter in Mexico, but birds along the Pacific Coast, primarily in California and some southern states, remain year-round.
You can find Lark Sparrows in open grassy areas, grasslands, trees, and pastures with scattered shrubs.
Lark Sparrows feed on various insects such as grasshoppers, caterpillars, and beetles during the summer months. In the winter, they primarily rely on seeds, grasses, and weeds.
Lark Sparrow vocalizations consist of a delightful series of whistles, buzzes, and churr sounds.
Credit: Peter Ward and Ken Hall, XC596715. Accessible at www.xeno-canto.org/596715.
Lark Sparrow nests are built by both male and female sparrows. The male initiates the nest construction by placing twigs at the site, while the female takes over and completes the construction. The nests can be found on the ground, in low trees, or even in crevices on rocky cliffs.
The female creates an open cup-shaped nest made of grass, weeds, animal hair, and twigs. Each nest contains up to six eggs, with an incubation period of approximately twelve days. The young sparrows fledge within ten days, and they receive parental care even after leaving the nest.
To attract Lark Sparrows to your backyard, provide a habitat with open grassy areas and offer a variety of seeds as food sources.
Fun Fact: Male Lark Sparrows engage in an elaborate courting ritual, which includes a five-minute dance where they raise their wings and leap into the air while singing to attract females.
Sparrows in Wisconsin during the Winter Season
1. Dark-eyed Junco
Throughout the winter season in Wisconsin, from September to May, Dark-eyed Juncos can be frequently observed, with a few even spotted in the northern part of the state during the breeding period.
During winter, Dark-eyed Juncos are the most commonly sighted sparrows, appearing in approximately 42% of checklists.
Dark-eyed Juncos come in different color variations depending on their location. In the east, they are typically slate-colored, while in the west, they exhibit a combination of black, white, and brown.
Junco hyemalis
Length: 5.5-6.3 in (14-16 cm)
Weight: 0.6-1.1 oz (18-30 g)
Wingspan: 7.1-9.8 in (18-25 cm)
Dark-eyed Juncos are year-round residents in the northeastern and western regions of the United States, as well as the Appalachian Mountains. However, those that breed in Canada and Alaska migrate southwards to the United States during winter.
These sparrows can be found in open areas with partial vegetation, often foraging on the ground. They primarily feed on seeds but also consume insects to some extent.
Dark-eyed Junco vocalizations consist of a simple song comprising fast, high-pitched notes.
Credit: Bobby Wilcox, XC667170. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/667170.
Dark-eyed Junco nests are typically located on the ground, concealed within vegetation. They are constructed using plant materials such as twigs, grass, and hair. The nests usually contain up to six eggs, with an incubation period of approximately two weeks. The young juncos fledge in about two weeks after hatching.
To attract Dark-eyed Juncos to your backyard, provide a variety of seeds such as black oil sunflower seeds, nyjer, cracked corn, millet, and peanuts on platform feeders or scattered on the ground.
Fun Fact: Dark-eyed Juncos earned the nickname “snowbirds” because they arrive in the United States during the winter season.
2. American Tree Sparrow
From October to May, American Tree Sparrows are winter visitors to southern Wisconsin, with some individuals passing through the northern regions during migration. They are observed in approximately 16% of winter checklists.
American Tree Sparrows have plump bodies with brown streaks, rusty caps, gray faces, and a distinct rusty eye line.
Spizelloides arborea
Length: 5.5 in (14 cm)
Weight: 0.5-1.0 oz (13-28 g)
Wingspan: 9.4 in (24 cm)
American Tree Sparrows breed in the far northern parts of Canada and Alaska and migrate to various US states for winter, excluding the Pacific and Gulf Coasts.
These sparrows can be found in weedy fields and often gather in small flocks. They feed on seeds and can frequently be seen under bird feeders.
Male American Tree Sparrows produce a pleasant song characterized by rising and falling whistles, typically sung in late winter before migration. Their calls are short and sharp, while females rarely vocalize.
Credit: Peter Boesman, XC323018. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/323018.
American Tree Sparrow nests are constructed using twigs, grass, and moss, usually near or on the ground. The female builds the nest, which contains around five eggs. The incubation period lasts about two weeks, and the young sparrows fledge in approximately nine days.
To attract American Tree Sparrows to your backyard, provide black oil sunflower seeds, nyjer, cracked corn, and
millet on platform feeders. They also feed on seeds dropped on the ground from tube feeders.
Fun Fact: Despite their name, American Tree Sparrows spend most of their time foraging and nesting on the ground, rather than in trees.
Sparrows in Wisconsin during Migration
1. White-throated Sparrow
White-throated Sparrows can be spotted in Wisconsin primarily during the spring and fall migrations in April to May and September to October.
Some individuals also spend the breeding season in the northern part of the state and migrate southward during winter. They appear in up to 38% of checklists during migrations and 12% of summer checklists.
White-throated Sparrows have distinctive black and white striped heads, bright white throats, and yellow patches between the eyes and bills. Their backs are brown, and their undersides are gray. Additionally, they exhibit two color variations, with some birds having tan-striped heads and others having white-striped heads.
Zonotrichia albicollis
Length: 6.3-7.1 in (16-18 cm)
Weight: 0.8-1.1 oz (22-32 g)
Wingspan: 7.9-9.1 in (20-23 cm)
White-throated Sparrows are migratory birds, mainly breeding in Canada before heading south to eastern and southern US states, as well as the Pacific Coast, during winter.
These sparrows can be found on the ground in forests, woods, and along wooded edges, often forming large flocks. They primarily feed on grass and weed seeds, along with fruits such as grape, sumac, mountain ash, blueberry, blackberry, and dogwood. In the summer, they also consume various insects found on the forest floor.
White-throated Sparrow vocalizations consist of a distinctive whistle, composed of a few long, slow notes that change in pitch, often resembling a person whistling.
Credit: Peter Ward and Ken Hall, XC598448. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/598448.
White-throated Sparrow nests are built by females and are usually located on or near the ground in dense vegetation. Constructed from moss, twigs, and grass, the nests are lined with softer materials such as grass and animal hair. They typically lay up to six eggs, which hatch after approximately two weeks. The young sparrows fledge in about one to two weeks.
To attract White-throated Sparrows to your backyard, offer millet and black oil sunflower seeds on platform feeders.
Fun Fact: White-throated Sparrows always choose a mate with the opposite color morph, resulting in tan-striped or white-striped heads within a breeding pair.
2. White-crowned Sparrow
White-crowned Sparrows migrate through Wisconsin in May and again in October, with sightings appearing in up to 21% of checklists during these periods. However, a few individuals remain in the southern part of the state during winter.
White-crowned Sparrows are large grayish sparrows with long tails, small bills, and bold black and white stripes on their heads.
Zonotrichia leucophrys
Length: 5.9-6.3 in (15-16 cm)
Weight: 0.9-1.0 oz (25-28 g)
Wingspan: 8.3-9.4 in (21-24 cm)
White-crowned Sparrows breed in Alaska and Arctic Canada, migrating south to the lower 48 states and Mexico for winter. Some individuals remain along the Pacific Coast and in mountainous regions throughout the year.
These sparrows can be found in weedy fields, forest edges, and roadside areas,
foraging for seeds of weeds and grasses, as well as fruits like elderberries and blackberries.
Male White-crowned Sparrows produce a clear whistle followed by a series of chaotic whistles and ending with a buzz in their song. Calls are usually short and sharp, while females rarely vocalize.
Credit: Richard E. Webster, XC678159. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/678159.
White-crowned Sparrow nests are made from twigs, grass, moss, and pine needles, often situated low to the ground in shrubs or on the ground in tundra environments. They lay up to seven eggs, which take about two weeks to hatch, with the chicks leaving the nest within around nine days.
To attract White-crowned Sparrows to your backyard, provide sunflower seeds, as they will also consume seeds dropped by other birds at the feeders.
Fun Fact: Young White-crowned Sparrows take an additional one to two weeks to learn to fly after leaving the nest.
3. Fox Sparrow
Fox Sparrows typically migrate through Wisconsin from March to April and October to November, although a few individuals have been observed in the southern part of the state during winter. They are recorded in up to 12% of checklists during migration.
While some species may have more gray or dark brown coloration, the Fox Sparrow is aptly named for its fox-red hue. The reddish streaks on its chest are particularly prominent. Compared to other sparrows, it has a chunkier appearance.
There are four distinct color and appearance variations within Fox Sparrows. Eastern regions are home to Red Fox Sparrows, while the Pacific Coast is inhabited by darker “sooty” Fox Sparrows. Thick-billed Fox Sparrows can be found in California, and Slate-colored Fox Sparrows are present in western US states.
Passerella iliaca
Length: 5.9-7.5 in (15-19 cm)
Weight: 0.9-1.6 oz (26-44 g)
Wingspan: 10.5-11.4 in (26.7-29 cm)
Fox Sparrows breed and migrate across the northern and western regions of Canada, Alaska, and as far south as California in the western United States.
During winter, they can be found in southeastern US states and along the Pacific coast. Some individuals remain year-round along Canada’s Pacific coast, and they can be seen during migration in central and northeastern US states.
These sparrows can be found in wooded areas, undergrowth, and brush. During winter, they migrate to similar areas, even venturing into well-vegetated suburbs and parks. They often kick up leaf litter in search of food on the ground.
Fox Sparrows have a diet that primarily consists of insects and seeds. They may also consume berries, grasses, and even crustaceans and marine animals if they are near a beach environment.
Fox Sparrow vocalizations include a series of whistles and buzzy notes, creating a pleasant song.
Credit: Martin St-Michel, XC467711. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/467711.
Fox Sparrow nests are hidden under dense, low shrubs or occasionally built in low trees, but no higher than eight feet above the ground. The nests are covered with grass, weeds, and moss, while the walls are strengthened with twigs for above-ground nests.
They typically lay two to five eggs, which take around two weeks to hatch. The young sparrows may leave the nest within eleven days of hatching.
To attract Fox Sparrows to your backyard, offer small seeds, berries, and low-growing native shrubs.
Fun Fact: Female Fox Sparrows are incredibly efficient nest builders, capable of starting and completing a nest from sunrise to dusk!
4. Lincoln’s Sparrow
Lincoln’s Sparrows can be found in Wisconsin primarily during the spring and fall migrations in May and September to October.
They appear in nearly 8% of checklists during migrations, while a few individuals spend the breeding season in the northern part of the state, accounting for 2% of summer checklists.
Lincoln’s Sparrows are medium-sized sparrows, predominantly gray with streaks of brown on their wings and chest, and white bellies. When they raise their crown feathers, their heads may appear pointed. They have a buffy eyering, gray eyebrow area, and dark eye line.
Melospiza lincolnii
Length: 5.1-5.9 in (13-15 cm)
Weight: 0.6-0.7 oz (17-19 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 in (19-22 cm)
Lincoln’s Sparrows breed in Canada and parts of western US states, migrating to southern US states, the Pacific Coast, and Mexico for winter. They can be seen during migration throughout the rest of the United States.
These sparrows are often found in densely covered shrubs and thickets, particularly near streams and wet or damp areas. During winter, they migrate to tropical but humid forests.
Lincoln’s Sparrows primarily feed on weeds and grasses during winter. However, during the breeding season, they supplement their diet with insects such as spiders, ants, and caterpillars, while still providing plant matter to their young.
The song of Lincoln’s Sparrows consists of a fast trill of notes and buzzes, considered one of the most melodious among all sparrow species.
Credit: Richard E. Webster, XC574895. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/574895.
Nests of Lincoln’s Sparrows are built near the ground, hidden in dead grass and rushes, and constructed using grass. They typically lay around five eggs, which hatch after approximately ten days.
To attract Lincoln’s Sparrows to your backyard, provide sunflower seeds, as they will also consume seeds dropped by other birds at the feeders.
Fun Fact: Lincoln’s Sparrows are known for their secretive nature and are rarely seen, but their sweet song can be used to identify their presence.
5. Harris’s Sparrow
Harris’s Sparrows are considered a near-threatened species, but they can be spotted in Wisconsin during their migrations in May and October.
Harris’s Sparrows have a distinct appearance, characterized by a black face and bib that is darker in adults than in juveniles. They also exhibit brown-streaked bodies, pale bellies, and pink bills. Breeding adults have gray heads, while non-breeding adults display brown heads.
Zonotrichia querula
Length: 6.7-7.9 in (17-20 cm)
Weight: 0.9-1.7 oz (26-49 g)
Wingspan: 10.6 in (27 cm)
Harris’s Sparrows breed in the northern tundra of central Canada and migrate to south-central Great Plains for winter. They can be observed during migration across central US states and Canadian provinces.
These sparrows can be found in open areas during migration or in fields and other open spaces during winter. They feed on seeds, fruits, insects, and specifically crowberries during the nesting season when food availability is limited.
Harris’s Sparrow vocalizations include a unique call and song.
Credit: Paul Driver, XC70460. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/70460.
Nests of Harris’s Sparrows are situated on the ground, constructed from twigs and moss, and lined with soft grass.
They lay up to five eggs, which take around two weeks to hatch, and the young sparrows leave the nest after approximately nine days.
To attract Harris’s Sparrows to your backyard during winter, provide black oil sunflower seeds, millet, and cracked corn.
Fun Fact: Harris’s Sparrows are the only songbirds that breed exclusively in Canada and nowhere else.
6. LeConte’s Sparrow
LeConte’s Sparrows are rarely seen in Wisconsin, but they may be spotted during migrations.
LeConte’s Sparrows display a dull orange color with black streaks on their backs and wings. They have white bellies with pale orange across the chest, gray patches on their cheeks, and a dark eye line.
Ammospiza leconteii
Length: 4.7-5.1 in (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.4-0.6 oz (12-16.3 g)
Wingspan: 6.3-7.1 in (16-18 cm)
LeConte’s Sparrows breed mainly in Canada and migrate to the south-central US states. They can be observed during migration across the Great Plains.
These sparrows are commonly found in dense grasslands that are marshy or boggy, foraging for seeds and insects. Unfortunately, their small size and shy nature make them challenging to spot.
LeConte’s Sparrow vocalizations include a song consisting of trills and notes, producing a melodic tune.
Credit: Peter Ward and Ken Hall, XC598435. Available at www.xeno-canto.org/598435.
Nests of LeConte’s Sparrows are situated near the ground, hidden in dead grass and rushes, and constructed using grass. They typically lay around five eggs, which hatch after approximately ten days.
To attract LeConte’s Sparrows to your backyard, provide a habitat with dense grasslands, native plants, and appropriate food sources.
Fun Fact: LeConte’s Sparrows are known for their secretive behavior, but their sweet song can help identify their presence during migration.
How to Attract Sparrows to Your Backyard
You can easily attract sparrows to your backyard by following these simple tips:
1. Provide their preferred seeds, including sunflower seeds, nyjer, millet, and cracked corn.
2. Plant native plants and shrubs to attract insects, which are an essential part of sparrows’ diet.
3. Create a water feature with clean running water, such as a birdbath or small pond.
4. Ensure feeders are not placed near sheltered areas where cats may pose a threat to the sparrows’ safety.
Most Commonly Spotted Sparrows in Wisconsin:
Based on checklists submitted by birdwatchers on eBird, the following sparrows are most frequently observed in Wisconsin:
1. Song Sparrow – 29.0%
2. House Sparrow – 24.1%
3. Dark-eyed Junco – 21.1%
4. Chipping Sparrow – 15.4%
5. White-throated Sparrow – 9.6%
6. American Tree Sparrow – 6.9%
7. Eastern Towhee – 6.2%
8. Swamp Sparrow – 6.0%
9. Field Sparrow – 5.3%
10. Savannah Sparrow – 3.6%
11. White-crowned Sparrow – 3.5%
12. Fox Sparrow – 2.5%
13. Clay-colored Sparrow – 2.3%
14. Lincoln’s Sparrow – 1.3%
15. Vesper Sparrow – 1.2%
16. Grasshopper Sparrow – 0.5%
17. Henslow’s Sparrow – 0.5%
18. Lark Sparrow – 0.2%
19. Harris’s Sparrow – 0.1%
20. LeConte’s Sparrow – 0.1%