Fox Sparrow

Passerella iliaca

Summary 6

The Fox Sparrow (Passerella iliaca) is a large American sparrow. It is the only member of the genus Passerella, although some authors split the genus into four species (see below).

Passerella iliaca 7

A large (6 ¾ -7 ½ inches) bunting, the Fox Sparrow is most easily identified by its reddish-brown back, streaked breast, and gray face. Other field marks include a large conical bill, long tail, and white throat patch. Male and female Fox Sparrows are similar in all seasons. The Fox Sparrow breeds across Alaska and central Canada. In the west, this species’ range extends south at higher elevations into the United States as far south as southern California. In winter, this species migrates south to the Pacific coast from Washington south to Baja California, the eastern U.S., and parts of the desert southwest. Fox Sparrows breed in a variety of thick shrubby woodland habitats, particularly those with low willow, fir, and spruce bushes. During the winter, this species may be found in thickets in shrub lands and along woodland edges. Fox Sparrows primarily eat insects in summer, adding seeds and grains to their diets during the winter. In appropriate habitat, Fox Sparrows may be observed foraging for food on the ground below shrubs and small trees. Birdwatchers may also listen for this species’ song, a series of whistles and trills that is softer and more fluid than that of the Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia). Fox Sparrows are most active during the day, but, like many migratory songbirds, this species migrates at night.

Threat Status: Least Concern

Sources and Credits

  1. (c) Rick Leche - Photography, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-ND), http://www.flickr.com/photos/64649343@N00/2942826690
  2. (c) Jennifer Rycenga, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Jennifer Rycenga
  3. (c) kevinhintsa, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by kevinhintsa
  4. (c) Donna Pomeroy, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Donna Pomeroy
  5. (c) Steven Mlodinow, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Steven Mlodinow
  6. (c) Wikipedia, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passerella_iliaca
  7. (c) Smithsonian Institution, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-SA), http://eol.org/data_objects/33118832

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