Botteri's sparrow is a medium-sized sparrow.
Region
Southwestern United States, Mexico, and northern Central America
Typical Environment
Occupies tall, dense grasslands and grassy savannas, including sacaton bottoms in Arizona, coastal prairie in south Texas, and open grassy scrub across much of Mexico. Prefers areas with standing bunchgrasses and scattered shrubs for perches. Often near seasonally wet swales or lowlands that promote robust grass growth. Avoids heavily grazed or closely mowed fields. Uses rank roadside or fallow fields when structure is suitable.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Botteri's sparrow is a medium-sized sparrow of tall, dense grasslands, especially sacaton and coastal prairies. It often sings from grass stems after summer rains and can be surprisingly hard to see as it skulks through cover. Its populations can fluctuate locally with grassland management and rainfall patterns.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and fluttering over grass
Social Behavior
Generally solitary or in pairs during the breeding season, defending small territories. Nests are built low in dense grasses, often well concealed near the base of clumps. Outside breeding, may form loose, small groups in suitable grasslands. Courtship involves song displays from elevated grass stems or low shrubs.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a buzzy, insect-like series of notes that accelerates or ends with a trill, often delivered from within or just above tall grass. Calls are sharp chips and thin tseets, used to maintain contact in dense cover.
