Savannah sparrow

The Savannah sparrow is a small North American bird that was once considered the sole widely accepted member of its genus, *Passerculus*. Genetic studies have revealed that the Ipswich sparrow is actually a subspecies of the Savannah sparrow, whereas the large-billed sparrow is recognized as a distinct species. The bird derives its name from Savannah, Georgia, where one of the first specimens was discovered.

This petite bird breeds across a diverse range of locations, including Alaska, Canada, the United States, Mexico, and Guatemala. As winter approaches, it migrates to warmer regions in the southern U.S., Central America, the Caribbean, and northern South America. Occasionally, it is spotted as a rare visitor in western Europe.

Savannah sparrows have dark-streaked brown backs and whitish underparts with streaks on their breasts and flanks. They also boast distinctive color patterns on their head and throat. Their plumage varies significantly among subspecies, consistent with Gloger’s rule, which suggests that birds in humid environments tend to exhibit darker coloration. They range in size from 11 to 17 centimeters in length. Their diet primarily consists of seeds, but they also consume insects during the breeding season.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists the Savannah sparrow as a species of least concern. These birds forage on the ground or in low bushes and form pairs or family groups during the breeding season. They are known for their distinctive flight calls and songs composed of chirps and trills.

There are seventeen recognized subspecies of Savannah sparrows, including the Ipswich sparrow previously mentioned as a separate species. These subspecies are categorized based on their migratory patterns and breeding ranges. The large-billed sparrows, typically darker with larger bills, are found in specific coastal regions.