LeConte's sparrow, also known as LeConte's bunting, is one of the smallest New World sparrow species in North America.
Region
North American Prairies and Boreal Plains
Typical Environment
Breeds in wet grasslands, sedge meadows, and fens across the northern Great Plains and southern boreal regions from the north-central United States into central Canada. During migration it uses weedy fields, damp pastures, and marsh edges. In winter it favors dense, moist grasslands, coastal prairies, rice fields, and marsh margins in the southern United States. Nests are placed low or on the ground in thick vegetation where cover is continuous.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
LeConte's sparrow, also known as LeConte's bunting, is one of the smallest New World sparrows in North America and is famously secretive, often staying hidden in dense grasses. Its song is a thin, insect-like buzz that can be hard to locate. The species was named by John James Audubon in honor of American entomologist John Lawrence LeConte. It depends on intact wet meadows and sedge-grass prairies, habitats that have declined in many areas.
LeConte's sparrow hiding under the cover of grass
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low over vegetation
Social Behavior
Breeding birds keep low profiles in dense grasses, with males singing from low perches or grass stems. Nests are shallow cups of grasses placed on or near the ground and are well concealed. Outside the breeding season they may gather loosely in small groups, often flushing only at close range and dropping back quickly into cover.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Song is a thin, insect-like sequence: a few ticking notes followed by a buzzy, sibilant trill. Calls include sharp ticks and soft chips given from within cover.
