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Vesper Sparrow

Pooecetes gramineus ORDER: PASSERIFORMES FAMILY: EMBERIZIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

Vesper Sparrow Photo

© 2004 Cornell Lab of Ornithology

A large sparrow, the Vesper Sparrow inhabits grasslands and fields across much of the north-central United States and Canada. As its name suggests, it often sings in the evening twilight, though it sings actively in early morning as well.

Inside Birding
For complete information on this species, visit The Birds of North America Online.

Appearance

Sparrows
Sparrows
Typical Voice

Adult Description

  • Large sparrow.
  • Grayish brown.
  • Streaked chest and back.
  • White eyering.
  • White outer tail feathers.

Immature Description

Similar to adult, but without hidden rufous in wing.

Range Map Help

Vesper Sparrow Range Map
View dynamic map of eBird sightings

Similar Species

  • Song Sparrow lacks white in tail feathers and distinct white eyering.
  • Savannah Sparrow has shorter tail, yellowish eyestripe, and lacks white eyering and white outer tail feathers.
  • American and Sprague's pipits have white outer tail feathers, but have thinner bills, walk instead of hop, and frequently bob their tails.