The field sparrow is a small New World sparrow in the family Passerellidae. It is about 140 mm (6 in) long and weighs about 12.5 g (0.4 oz). The head is grey with a rust-coloured crown, white eye-ring and pink bill. The upper parts are brown streaked with black and buff, the breast is buff, the belly is white and the tail is forked. There are two different colour morphs, one being greyer and the other more rufous.
Region
Eastern and Central North America
Typical Environment
Breeds from southern Canada through the eastern and central United States, wintering largely in the southeastern U.S. and parts of the lower Midwest. Prefers open, weedy fields, powerline cuts, fencerows, and regenerating clearcuts with scattered shrubs. Uses hedgerows and field edges in agricultural landscapes. In winter, frequents weedy lots and brushy field margins, often near seed sources.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Field sparrows favor brushy old fields and early-successional habitats with scattered shrubs and saplings. Their song is a clear, accelerating series of whistles often likened to a bouncing ball coming to rest. Populations have declined in many regions as fields mature into forest or are developed, but they respond well to habitat management like rotational mowing and controlled burns.
Field sparrow in Central Park
Perched. Suffield, CT
Temperament
shy and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs during breeding, nesting low in shrubs or on the ground early in the season and higher later as vegetation grows. Monogamous pairs defend small territories. In nonbreeding seasons, forms loose flocks with other sparrows while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A clear, sweet series of whistles that accelerates like a bouncing ball, often ending in a brief trill. Calls include thin tseep notes and soft chips used during foraging and contact.
