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White-crowned Sparrow

100

3 months ago door Jeffrey

Points: 100

Spotted

The White-crowned Sparrow is a common and distinctive bird, easily identified by its bold black and white striped crown. It is a familiar sight in North America during migration and winter.

Where to spot

Breeds across Alaska, Canada, and the western United States. Winters throughout the contiguous United States and northern Mexico. Found in a variety of open and semi-open habitats, including tundras, grasslands, shrublands, agricultural fields, parks, and suburban gardens.

How to spot

Look for its prominent black and white crown stripes. Juveniles have brown and tan stripes. They typically forage on the ground, often scratching with their feet. Listen for their clear, whistled song, often described as 'Oh, sweet Canada, Canada, Canada!'

When to spot

Breeds in summer (May-August). Migrates south in autumn (Sept-Nov) and north in spring (Mar-May). During migration and winter, it's active throughout the day, often foraging in flocks.

Where to spot

How to spot

When to spot

Breeds in summer (May-August). Migrates south in autumn (Sept-Nov) and north in spring (Mar-May). During migration and winter, it's active throughout the day, often foraging in flocks.

Credits: Wikimedia Commons

Young White-crowned Sparrows learn their complex songs from older males. Studies have shown they go through a 'subsong' phase, much like human babies babbling, before mastering their adult song.

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