Harris's sparrow is a large sparrow. Their breeding habitat is the north part of central Canada, making it Canada's only endemic breeding bird. In the winter they migrate to the Great Plains states of the United States, from southern South Dakota to central Texas. The common name of this species commemorates the American amateur ornithologist Edward Harris (1799–1863).
Region
Central Canada and the Great Plains of the United States
Typical Environment
Breeds in the subarctic forest–tundra ecotone from the Northwest Territories and Nunavut south into northern Manitoba. Nesting habitat includes stunted spruce, willow and alder thickets, and shrubby edges near open tundra. During migration and winter it occurs across the central Great Plains from southern South Dakota to central Texas. Winter habitats include weedy fields, hedgerows, shelterbelts, riparian thickets, and suburban yards with dense cover.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Continental
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Harris's sparrow is Canada’s only endemic breeding bird, nesting in the forest–tundra ecotone of north-central Canada and wintering in the U.S. Great Plains. Adults show a distinctive black hood and bib that becomes more extensive in breeding season. They often visit backyard feeders in winter, where their clear, mournful whistles may be heard. The species commemorates American amateur ornithologist Edward Harris.
The immature Harris's sparrow has a brown striped head as opposed to the black striped head of the mature breeding bird. Note the orange bill.
Harris's Sparrow near Denton, Nebraska. October 2017.
Temperament
generally shy but forms loose, tolerant flocks in winter
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights between cover
Social Behavior
Breeds solitarily with pairs defending territories in low shrub habitats. In winter it gathers in small mixed flocks, often associating with other sparrows at food sources. Nests are placed on or near the ground, well concealed in low shrubs or tussocks. Courtship includes soft calls and chasing displays.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, plaintive whistled notes that often descend in pitch, carrying well over open country. Calls include sharp tseet or tink notes. The overall tone is mellow and flutelike.
Plumage
Streaked brown back with pale edges, clean whitish underparts, and a bold black face, hood, and bib in adults (mottled in winter/immature). Nape often shows warm rufous tones; flanks lightly streaked. Feathers are crisp with clear contrasts between dark head/bib and pale underparts.
Diet
Feeds mainly on seeds of grasses and weeds, especially in winter, supplemented by berries. In the breeding season it takes more animal matter, including beetles, caterpillars, and other insects. Forages primarily on the ground by hopping and scratching through leaf litter and weedy patches. Will readily take grain and sunflower seeds at feeders during winter.
Preferred Environment
Favors shrubby edges, weedy fields, and brushy riparian zones, often near dense cover for quick retreat. In winter it frequents shelterbelts and suburban yards with shrubs and reliable seed sources.
