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Henry Sowell

Vol. I · Est. 2026

Pl. CLXXXI
Field-journal plate: Savannah Sparrow
The Savannah Sparrow plate as rendered on the e-ink frame
As rendered on the frame

The Birds · Plate CLXXXI

Savannah Sparrow

Passerculus sandwichensis

Passerellidae · Taxon 9981

Length4.7–5.9 in (12–15 cm), sexes similar
Wingspan7.9–9.4 in (20–24 cm), sexes similar
Weight0.5–1.0 oz (15–28 g), sexes similar

Field marks

  1. Small conical bill and dark eye
  2. Yellow patch in front of the eye
  3. Bold brown-and-cream facial pattern
  4. White underparts with crisp dark streaks
  5. Brown, black-streaked upperparts
  6. Short, slightly notched tail and pinkish legs

HabitatOpen habitats with low vegetation, including grasslands, meadows, pastures, cultivated fields, grassy roadsides, sedge wetlands, salt marshes, estuaries, dunes, shores, and tundra.

BehaviorForages mainly on the ground, walking or running through low vegetation for seeds and invertebrates; flight is typically quick and low. Males sing from exposed low perches and perform fluttering territorial and courtship displays.

Palette

warm browncream whiteblack-brownpale yellowpinkish tan