Song Sparrow Identification

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The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    Song Sparrows are medium-sized and fairly bulky sparrows. For a sparrow, the bill is short and stout and the head fairly rounded. The tail is long and rounded, and the wings are broad.

    Relative Size

    Slightly smaller than a Dark-eyed Junco; slightly larger than a Chipping Sparrow

    Relative Sizesparrow or smallersparrow-sized or smaller
    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 4.7-6.7 in (12-17 cm)
      • Weight: 0.4-1.9 oz (12-53 g)
      • Wingspan: 7.1-9.4 in (18-24 cm)

Regional Differences

Scientists recognize 24 subspecies of Song Sparrows and have described some 52 forms: they are one of the most regionally variable birds in North America. In general, coastal and northern birds are darker and streakier, with southern and desert birds wearing paler plumages.

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