photo by Phil Swanson

Melospiza melodia
L 6 1/4″ (16 cm).

Song or calls:

Listen (NGPC audio)

Song is 3 or 4 short clear notes followed by buzzy “tow-wee,” and ending with a trill. 

Description: Sexes similar. Plumage is highly variable. All have long, rounded tail that is pumped in flight; broad grayish eyebrow; and broad dark stripe bordering whitish throat. Reddish-brown upperparts are usually streaked; underparts are whitish with dark streaking on sides and breast that often converges into central breast spot. Pinkish legs and feet. Juvenile is buffier overall, with finer streaking below.

Habitat: Weedy areas, streamside woodland edges, forest margins, brushy edges of ponds, and shelterbelts.

Where in Nebraska: Common spring and fall migrant and uncommon winter visitor across the state. Local summer resident. Breeding probably limited to northern and eastern parts of state.

Field Notes: 34 recognized subspecies ranging from large, dark-colored, large-billed birds to small, sandy-colored, small-billed birds.

Fun Facts: Mockingbirds are not able to effectively imitate the song of a Song Sparrow.

 
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