Seaside sparrow

Overview

Wikipedia

The seaside sparrow is a species of American sparrow.

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Distribution

Region

Atlantic and Gulf Coasts of the United States

Typical Environment

Found in coastal salt and brackish marshes from southern New England down the Atlantic seaboard, around Florida, and west along the Gulf Coast to Texas. It favors expansive, low-lying tidal marshes dominated by cordgrass (Spartina) and needlerush (Juncus). Nests are placed slightly above the highest regular tide line in dense vegetation and along tidal creeks. The species rarely occurs far inland except in brackish estuaries and river deltas.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 10 m

Climate Zone

Temperate

Characteristics

Size12–15 cm

Wing Span18–21 cm

Male Weight0.022 kg

Female Weight0.02 kg

Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The seaside sparrow is tightly tied to coastal salt marshes and is one of the most salt‑marsh‑specialized North American passerines. It nests low in dense cordgrass, making it vulnerable to flooding from storms and king tides. The extinct Dusky Seaside Sparrow was a subspecies from Florida, highlighting how localized marsh losses can erase unique populations. Sea‑level rise and marsh degradation are ongoing conservation concerns for the species.

Gallery

The recently-extinct dusky seaside sparrow (A. m. nigrescens)

Behaviour

Temperament

secretive and skulking

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats low over the marsh

Social Behavior

Generally forms monogamous pairs in the breeding season, nesting in dense marsh grasses in well-hidden cup nests. Outside of breeding, it may forage in small loose groups, especially at low tide along tidal creeks. Territoriality is strongest during nesting when pairs defend small patches within suitable marsh.

Migratory Pattern

Partial migrant

Song Description

Song is a buzzy, insect-like trill that rises and ends abruptly, often delivered from a low perch in grass. Calls include sharp chips and metallic tseks, frequently given while moving through dense vegetation.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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