Ammodramus savannarum
The Grasshopper Sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum) is a small, secretive grassland bird, often more heard than seen, renowned for its distinctive insect-like song. Measuring 11-14 cm (4.3-5.5 in) in length with a wingspan of 17-23 cm (6.7-9.1 in) and weighing 13-20 g (0.46-0.71 oz), this compact sparrow presents a drab but intricately patterned appearance. Key field marks include a relatively flat head, a short tail, an unstreaked buffy breast and flanks, and a streaked brown back with chestnut ...
Primarily inhabits open, dry grasslands, prairies, hayfields, pastures, and airfields with sparse to moderate vegetation structure. Typically found at low to moderate elevations.
Feeds predominantly on insects, particularly grasshoppers, crickets, beetles, and caterpillars, during the breeding season. Seeds of various grasses and forbs comprise a larger portion of their diet during fall and winter, gleaned from the ground.
Grasshopper Sparrows are largely diurnal but are incredibly secretive, preferring to walk or run through dense grasses rather than fly when disturbed, often flushing only at the last moment. They forage by gleaning insects and seeds directly from the ground or low vegetation. Males are highly ter...
The Grasshopper Sparrow's breeding range spans widely across central and eastern North America, from southern Canada (primarily the Canadian Prairies and southern Ontario) south through much of the eastern and central United States, and locally into Mexico. Isolated populations also breed in the ...
Least Concern
- The Grasshopper Sparrow gets its name from its distinctive, insect-like song, which often resembles the buzz of a grasshopper. - When disturbed, it prefers to run or sneak through dense grass rather than flying, often flushing only when nearly stepped on. - It is considered one of the most rapi...