Oklahoma Winter Bird Profile: Savannah Sparrow

Similar to some subspecies of Song Sparrow, the usual yellow wash on the lores of the Savannah Sparrow is usually present.  The eyebrow also shows paler tones, the bill is pinkish and smaller, and there is evidence of a crest.  Savannah is usually thinner and less robust, and will form loose flocks in winter, away from other sparrow species.  It is generally available in open fields, perched upon weeds or fences, perhaps atop the ground.  They are also less likely seen in brushy habitat, enjoying marshes and fields.

One of the first species of this bird was found in Savannah, Georgia, hence its name.  Pacific and Mexican breeders are resident, and the remainder are migratory birds.  Oddly Alaskan and interior races are the palest, and coastal southwest birds are the darkest of all species.

                                                               Savannah Sparrow
                                                          Boomer Lake Park, 2015

There are many regional variations of this bird, both subspecies and forms.  The Ipswich is larger with pink-brown streaks, and very pale gray.  They winter on the east coast and breed in Maritime Canada.

Belding's is a Mexican/Southern California bird with a very thin median crown stripe and darker overall with heavier streaking.

The Large-billed is a Mexican subspecies that rarely crosses the border, and has a heavy, large bill.

Forms include the grayish typical adult with fine streaking, a streaked back minus the scaled pattern, and a short notched tail.  The reddish typical adult has a small bill with reddish streaking on the sides.

There are and were other subspecies, which we will not cover, as the likeliness of seeing them will generally be a moot point unless one intends to become a sparrow specialist.

Due to the fact that these birds nest on or near the ground, most farmers in the north or west will do a late mow of their fields in order to keep these populations as least concern.

I mention all subspecies and forms as they are so varied, and it would be wise to record their images if possible to aid in identification.  This sparrow will not be cut and dry, so next discussed will be the Song Sparrow in the series.