Song Sparrow
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.