A small sparrow with distinctive rusty cap and central breast spot.

Also called: Winter Sparrow

Native status: Native to North America

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 12–17 cm (4.7–6.7 in); wingspan 18–24 cm
Weight13–25 g
LifespanWild typically 2–4 years
OrderPasseriformes
FamilyPasserellidae

§ Encyclopedia

The tree sparrow is a passerine bird in the sparrow family with a rich chestnut crown and nape and a black patch on each pure white cheek. The sexes have similar plumage, and young birds are duller versions of the adult. This sparrow breeds across much of temperate Eurasia and Southeast Asia and has been introduced elsewhere, including the United States, where it is known as the Eurasian tree sparrow or German sparrow to differentiate it from the native American tree sparrow. Although several subspecies are recognised, the appearance of this bird varies little across its extensive range.

Source: Wikipedia — Eurasian tree sparrow Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Rusty cap and eye line, gray face and breast with a single dark central 'stickpin' spot, two white wing bars, and a bicolored bill (dark above, yellow below).

Similar species. Field Sparrow has a fully pink bill and no breast spot; Chipping Sparrow is smaller with a black eye line and dark bill.

Voice. A sweet, musical opening of one or two clear notes followed by a warble; winter flocks give silvery 'teedle-eet' calls.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Seeds (primary), insects (especially during breeding).

Behavior. A hardy winter sparrow of the northern U.S.; breeds at the arctic treeline and forms feeding flocks in weedy fields and at feeders in cold months.

§ Range

Boreal Canada in summer; winters across northern US

§ Habitat

Open habitats

§ Threats

Climate change, habitat loss.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the tree sparrow (american) is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

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§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • Cornell Lab of Ornithology — All About Birds
  • National Audubon Society
  • iNaturalist
  • IUCN Red List