Zonotrichia atricapilla
The Golden-crowned Sparrow (Zonotrichia atricapilla) is a strikingly marked New World sparrow, a beloved winter visitor to the western United States. Measuring 16-18 cm (6.3-7.1 inches) in length with a wingspan of 23-28 cm (9.1-11.0 inches) and weighing 22-35 grams (0.78-1.23 oz), this medium-sized sparrow is easily identified by its distinctive head pattern. Adults sport a bright yellow or golden crown patch prominently bordered by black stripes on either side, contrasting sharply with a pl...
Breeds in dense subalpine and alpine shrubbery, stunted conifer forests, and arctic tundra edges. Winters in chaparral, coastal scrub, brushy clearings, parks, and suburban gardens, preferring dense cover.
Primarily granivorous, consuming a wide variety of seeds, buds, and fallen berries, especially in winter. During the breeding season, a significant portion of their diet consists of insects, spiders, and other invertebrates.
Golden-crowned Sparrows are primarily diurnal, spending much of their time foraging on the ground, often employing a characteristic double-scratching technique to uncover seeds and insects. During the breeding season, males establish territories with their distinctive, melancholy song, typically ...
The Golden-crowned Sparrow has an extensive breeding range across northwestern North America, primarily in Alaska, Yukon Territory, British Columbia, and the western portions of the Northwest Territories. They inhabit subalpine and alpine tundra zones, often near the tree line. Their migratory ro...
Least Concern
- The Golden-crowned Sparrow's distinctive song is often described by the mnemonic 'Oh, oh dear me' or 'Three blind mice. - They are known for their unique 'double-scratching' foraging technique, where they kick back vigorously with both feet simultaneously to expose food under leaf litter. - Des...