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Lark Sparrow

Chondestes grammacus ORDER: PASSERIFORMES FAMILY: EMBERIZIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

A conspicuous sparrow of farmlands and roadsides, the Lark Sparrow has a bold face and tail pattern. With unusual courtship displays as well as plumage, it is like no other sparrow and is the sole member of its genus.

Appearance

Sparrows
Sparrows
Typical Voice

Adult Description

  • Large sparrow.
  • Long, rounded tail with white corners.
  • Plain whitish underparts with large dark spot in center of breast.
  • Striking face pattern.

Immature Description

Juvenile with brown streaks on chest. Face pattern more obscure with browns instead of chestnut and black, and dirty white stripes. First winter has adult pattern, but duller on face.

Range Map Help

Lark Sparrow Range Map
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Field MarksHelp

Similar Species

  • Vesper Sparrow has white only on the edges of its tail, has a streaked breast, and lacks the bold face pattern.

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    bird image Blue-winged Warbler by Brian Sullivan

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