The white-crowned sparrow is a species of passerine bird native to North America. A medium-sized member of the New World sparrow family, this species is marked by a grey face and black and white streaking on the upper head. It breeds in brushy areas in the taiga and tundra of the northernmost parts of the continent and in the Rocky Mountains and Pacific coast. While southerly populations in the Rocky Mountains and coast are largely resident, the breeding populations of the northerly part of its range are migratory and can be found as wintering or passage visitors through most of North America south to central Mexico.
Region
North America
Typical Environment
Breeds across the tundra and taiga of Alaska and northern Canada, as well as montane and coastal scrub from the Pacific Northwest through the Rocky Mountains. In winter it spreads through much of the United States into northern and central Mexico. Habitats include brushy tundra edges, willow and alder thickets, coastal scrub, chaparral, riparian corridors, and weedy fields. In winter it readily uses hedgerows, parks, and backyard feeders near dense cover.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
White-crowned sparrows are famous for their clear, whistled songs, which vary in distinct regional dialects. Juveniles show brown-and-buff crown stripes before acquiring the striking black-and-white adult pattern. They often use a double-scratch foraging motion on the ground to uncover seeds and insects.
In California, United States
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides
Social Behavior
Forms loose flocks outside the breeding season and often forages in small groups. During breeding, pairs defend territories; nests are placed on or near the ground in low shrubs or tundra vegetation. Typically monogamous within a season, with both sexes involved in parental care.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A series of clear, whistled phrases delivered from exposed perches; regional dialects are pronounced across populations. Calls include sharp tseet notes and soft contact chips.
