The striped sparrow is a species of bird in the family Passerellidae. It is monotypic within the genus Oriturus.
Region
Western and southern Mexico
Typical Environment
Found in dry to semi-arid scrub, thorn forest edges, weedy fields, and agricultural mosaics with scattered shrubs. It frequents brushy roadsides, hedgerows, and grassy slopes near thickets where it can quickly retreat to cover. The species is largely terrestrial while feeding but uses low perches for song and vigilance. It tolerates moderately disturbed habitats and often occurs near human-altered landscapes.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This sparrow is the sole member of the genus Oriturus and is native to Mexico. It favors scrubby, semi-open landscapes where it often perches conspicuously on fences or low bushes to sing. Pairs are commonly seen foraging on the ground, and the bold white eyebrow (supercilium) makes identification straightforward.
Temperament
alert and moderately territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, undulating flights between shrubs
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups. Nests are cup-shaped and placed low in dense shrubs or grasses. Both sexes participate in territory defense; the species often forages quietly but sings from exposed perches.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A bright, ringing series of trills and chip notes delivered from fence lines or shrub tops. Calls include sharp tsip and metallic chink notes, repeated in short sequences.
Plumage
Crisp head pattern with bold striping, plain grayish to buff underparts, and brown upperparts with fine streaking on the mantle.
Diet
Primarily consumes grass and weed seeds, complemented by small insects and other arthropods, especially during the breeding season. It forages by hopping and scratching on the ground and occasionally gleans from low vegetation. Opportunistically takes spilled grain around rural settlements.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along brushy field margins, weedy lots, and the edges of thorn scrub where seed-rich grasses and cover are both available. Often uses paths, fencerows, and cleared patches for ground foraging.
