Melospiza melodia, commonly known as the Song sparrow, is a medium-sized New World sparrow that can be found throughout the world. It is a member of the Passerellidae family. It is without a doubt one of the most abundant, variable, and adaptable species of sparrows found in North America’s natural habitat.
Quick Overview: Melospiza Melodia – Song Sparrow
Body size: Around 5.75-7.5 in (15-19 cm) and a weight of 20 g (0.7 oz).
Main colors: Brown, White, Gray
Range: Northern and Southern United States
Migratory Bird: Yes
Best time of the year to see in the U.S.: All Year (January – December)
Conservation Status: Least Concern
Song sparrow Description
Song sparrows are medium-sized sparrows that measure between 12 and 17 cm in length. They are a monomorphic species, meaning they have only one form. Song sparrows are distinguished by their heavily streaked plumage. Dark streaks that form a central chest spot are the most distinguishing feature of this species (stick pin). Coloration: Brown on the top of the head, with a whitish or grayish crown stripe and an eye stripe.
Size
These birds have a length of 5.75-7.5 in (15-19 cm) and a weight of 20 g (0.7 oz). Their wings could range from 8.25-12.5 in (21-32cm).
Feeding
Song sparrows eat seeds, grains, grass, berries, and insects. However, female song sparrows may consume insects or other invertebrates during egg formation to supplement their diet. In the spring, the female eats algae, sprouting shoots and leaves, flower buds, and other high-protein foods.
Habitat
Song sparrows are semi-migratory. Summer and winter residents use breeding grounds. Song sparrows prefer open brushy areas near ponds, streams, abandoned pastures, thickets, and woodland edges. In the winter, they inhabit marshes, weedy fields, ravines, and brush piles.
Behavior
These species of birds are squabbling. The male’s most recognizable feature. Male territorial defense involves singing and aggressive behavior toward other males. Song sparrows are primarily daytime birds that may make short winter migrations. They rarely occur in large groups.
Melospiza Melodia Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Subphylum: Chelicerata
- Class: Aves
- Order: Passeriformes
- Family: Passerellidae
- Genus: Melospiza
- Species: Melospiza melodia
Best time of the year to see
In the United States, the best time of year to see these birds is all year round, regardless of the season. This refers to any month of the year between January and December
Distribution of the Song sparrow in the USA
These birds can also be found in large numbers in areas where humans live. Populations from northern latitudes relocate to the southern United States and Mexico during the winter months. There have been reports of sightings in Western Europe, the United Kingdom, and Norway.
The Song sparrow can also be found in the following states in the United States – Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.