Species BirdsSong Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Melospiza melodia

CommonBird
Illustration of Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia)

The Song Sparrow is arguably the most variable bird species in North America, with over 50 recognized subspecies ranging from the small pale birds of desert Arizona to the large dark birds of the Aleutian Islands. It is one of the most studied birds in science — a single population in Michigan was the subject of decades of landmark research on population biology. Males sing from exposed perches throughout the year.

Habitat
Brushy areas, marsh edges, gardens, and forest edges
Diet
Seeds, insects, berries, and small crustaceans
How common
Common

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