Species BirdsSavannah Sparrow

Savannah Sparrow

Passerculus sandwichensis

CommonBird
Illustration of Savannah Sparrow (Passerculus sandwichensis)

The Savannah Sparrow is one of the most widespread grassland birds in North America, found in open habitats from the Alaskan tundra to Central American highlands. It is heavily streaked above and below, with a variable yellow supercilium that is a helpful field mark. It runs mouse-like through grass rather than flying when alarmed, making it difficult to observe.

Habitat
Grasslands, salt marshes, tundra, and agricultural fields
Diet
Seeds, insects, and small invertebrates
How common
Common

Best time to see a Savannah Sparrow

The best time to see a Savannah Sparrow is October–March, when about 62% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 58,801 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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