Song Sparrow

Photo: Roland Jordahl

• Scientific Name: Melospiza melodia.
• Family: Finch.
• Length: 6-1/4 inches.
• Wingspan: 8-1/4 inches.
• Distinctive Markings: Coarsely streaked brown bird-dark on the back and light underneath-with streaks on its sides that join to form a central breast spot. Its crown is brown with a narrow stripe, and a broader grayish stripe over each eye. The male and female look alike.
• Nest: A well-hidden ground or low nest of grasses, weed stems, leaves and bark fibers lined with finer materials. The three to five eggs are greenish white and heavily splotched with reddish brown and purple. The female incubates the eggs for 12 to 13 days. Pairs typically raise two broods a year.
• Song: The male's song begins with three clear notes of "sweet, sweet, sweet" followed by shorter notes and a trill. Its distinctive call note is "chimp."
• Habitat: Any low, open, weedy or brushy areas around farms, cities or suburbs.
• Diet: In fall and winter, small weed and grass seeds. In summer, insects make up half of their diet. Winter residents frequent bird feeders.
• Backyard Favorites: A ground-level tray feeder with seeds or a birdbath, each surrounded by thickets or brush.