Sparrow Look-Alikes

Distinct sounds help separate these similar species

BY KEN KEFFER

RANGE Breeds along Pacific Coast, in western mountains and across Canada and Alaska. Winters in much of the United States and Mexico. APPEARANCE Plain gray body with crisply patterned brown back. Adults have bold black-and-white head stripes. Rich rusty brown and gray head stripes on immature birds. Head may be slightly peaked. BILL Varies from pinkish to yellow. SONG Varies by region, but generally pure initial whistled notes, followed by jumbled whistles ending with buzzing trills. RANGE Breeds across Canada and the northeastern United States. Spends winter mostly in the eastern states, with fewer in the Southwest and Pacific Coast. APPEARANCE The white throat patch contrasts with a gray body and brown patterned wings and back. Head stripes may be brown and gray or black and white. Yellow patches between eyes and bill. BILL Grayish. SONG A…

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Birds & Blooms (Digital) - 1 Issue, October/November 2024

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