Colorado’s diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains to open plains, are home to a wide array of sparrow species. These small, often overlooked birds add a unique charm to the state’s natural beauty. Sparrows, with their varied songs and subtle plumage, are a delight for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Each species, from the vibrant Lark Bunting to the elusive Brewer’s Sparrow, has its own story to tell. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just beginning, discovering the sparrows of Colorado is a rewarding experience that connects you to the vibrant pulse of the natural world.
1. Song Sparrow
- Scientific name: Melospiza melodia
- Life span: 2-7 years
- Size: 5.5-7 in / 14-18 cm
- Weight: 0.8-1.4 oz / 22-40 g
- Wingspan: 9.1-9.8 in / 23-25 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
Song Sparrows are one of the most widespread sparrows in North America. They have heavily streaked brown and white plumage, with a distinctive central spot on the chest, often seen in diverse habitats from wetlands to gardens.
Song Sparrows build cup-shaped nests close to the ground, in shrubs or tall grass. The nests are made from grass, leaves, and bark, lined with finer materials. They lay 3-5 eggs, which are incubated for about 12-14 days by the female, with the chicks fledging in around 10-12 days.
Song Sparrows have a varied diet, including insects, seeds, and fruits. Insects are crucial during the breeding season to feed the young. They forage on the ground or in low vegetation, often near water, and switch to seeds and berries in the fall and winter.
Song Sparrows are widespread and not considered at risk. Conservation efforts focus on protecting diverse habitats, including wetlands and brushy areas. Historically, their populations have been stable, benefiting from a wide range of suitable habitats across North America.
2. House Sparrow
- Scientific name: Passer domesticus
- Life span: 3-5 years
- Size: 5.5-6.3 in / 14-16 cm
- Weight: 1.1-1.4 oz / 30-40 g
- Wingspan: 7.9-9.1 in / 20-23 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
House Sparrows are ubiquitous in urban areas worldwide. Males have gray heads, white cheeks, and a black bib, while females are brown with streaked backs. Their adaptability to human environments makes them one of the most familiar birds.
House Sparrows nest in cavities, often in buildings, nest boxes, or dense vegetation. They build bulky nests from twigs, grass, and feathers. They lay 3-7 eggs, which are incubated for about 11-14 days, with both parents involved in feeding the young.
House Sparrows have a diverse diet, primarily eating grains and seeds, but they also consume insects, especially during the breeding season. They are opportunistic feeders and can often be seen foraging around human habitation, making use of food scraps and bird feeders.
House Sparrows are abundant and not at risk, though they have declined in some urban areas. Conservation is generally not a focus for this adaptable species, but habitat enhancement in urban areas can support local populations. Historically, they have thrived alongside human development.
3. Swamp Sparrow
- Scientific name: Melospiza georgiana
- Life span: 2-4 years
- Size: 5.5-6.3 in / 14-16 cm
- Weight: 0.7-1.2 oz / 20-35 g
- Wingspan: 8.7-9.1 in / 22-23 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and common
Swamp Sparrows are found across North America in wetland areas. They have a reddish cap, gray face, and a streaked brown back, with a clear breast, often seen skulking in marshes and wet meadows.
Swamp Sparrows build their nests in dense vegetation, often in marshes or wetlands. The nests are constructed from grass, sedges, and moss, elevated slightly above the ground. They lay 3-5 eggs, which hatch in about 12-14 days, with both parents feeding the young.
Swamp Sparrows primarily consume insects and seeds. During the breeding season, insects like beetles and caterpillars are essential for feeding the young. They forage in dense marsh vegetation, switching to seeds from grasses and sedges during the non-breeding season.
Swamp Sparrows face habitat loss due to wetland drainage and development. Conservation efforts focus on protecting and restoring wetland habitats. Historically, their populations have been stable, but ongoing conservation programs are essential to safeguard their specialized habitats.
4. Dark-eyed Junco
- Scientific name: Junco hyemalis
- Life span: 3-7 years
- Size: 5.5-6.3 in / 14-16 cm
- Weight: 0.7-1.1 oz / 20-30 g
- Wingspan: 7.5-9.8 in / 19-25 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and common
Dark-eyed Juncos are found throughout North America, particularly in forests. They vary in color but generally have slate-gray upperparts and white underparts, with distinct white outer tail feathers visible in flight.
Dark-eyed Juncos nest on or near the ground in dense vegetation, often in forests. The nests are constructed from grass, twigs, and plant fibers, lined with softer materials. They lay 3-5 eggs, which hatch in about 12-13 days, with both parents feeding the young until they fledge.
Dark-eyed Juncos primarily eat seeds and insects. During the breeding season, insects like beetles and caterpillars are essential for feeding the young. They forage on the ground or in low vegetation, often in forests and woodland edges, switching to seeds during the non-breeding season.
Dark-eyed Juncos are generally stable and widespread, but habitat loss and climate change can pose threats. Conservation efforts focus on preserving forested habitats and monitoring population trends. Historically, they have maintained stable populations, benefiting from a wide range of suitable habitats.
5. American Tree Sparrow
- Scientific name: Spizelloides arborea
- Life span: 2-6 years
- Size: 5.9 in / 15 cm
- Weight: 0.6-1.0 oz / 18-28 g
- Wingspan: 7.9-9.1 in / 20-23 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and common
American Tree Sparrows breed in the northernmost parts of North America and winter across the US. They have a rusty cap, a clear breast with a dark spot, and a bicolored bill, often seen in weedy fields.
American Tree Sparrows nest on the ground in tundra regions, often in mossy areas or under shrubs. The nests are made from grass, moss, and feathers. They lay 4-6 eggs, which are incubated for about 11-13 days, with both parents feeding the young until they fledge.
American Tree Sparrows primarily eat seeds and insects. During the breeding season, insects become a crucial part of their diet, especially for feeding the young. They forage on the ground or in low vegetation, switching to seeds from grasses and weeds during the winter.
American Tree Sparrows are not considered at risk, but their populations are monitored to ensure stability. Conservation efforts include protecting their breeding habitats in the northern tundra. Historically, they have maintained stable populations, with periodic fluctuations due to environmental factors.
6. Chipping Sparrow
- Scientific name: Spizella passerina
- Life span: 4-5 years
- Size: 4.7-5.9 in / 12-15 cm
- Weight: 0.4-0.6 oz / 12-18 g
- Wingspan: 7.9-9.1 in / 20-23 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
The Chipping Sparrow is a widespread bird across North America, recognized by its bright rufous cap, black eye line, and grayish underparts. These sociable birds are often seen in open woodlands and gardens.
Chipping Sparrows build their nests in trees or shrubs, typically placing them 3-10 feet off the ground. The nests are constructed from grass and lined with animal hair. They lay 3-4 eggs, which hatch after about 11-14 days, with both parents feeding the chicks.
Chipping Sparrows eat a variety of seeds and insects. During the breeding season, insects like caterpillars and beetles become more important for feeding their young. They forage on the ground or in low vegetation, often in open woodlands and grassy areas.
Chipping Sparrows are widespread and not considered at risk. Conservation efforts focus on maintaining suitable habitats and monitoring populations. Historically, they have adapted well to various environments, benefiting from open woodlands and suburban areas.
7. Eastern Towhee
- Scientific name: Pipilo erythrophthalmus
- Life span: 6-9 years
- Size: 7.1-9.1 in / 18-23 cm
- Weight: 1.1-1.8 oz / 31-52 g
- Wingspan: 9.8-11.8 in / 25-30 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
Residing in the eastern United States, the Eastern Towhee captivates with its vivid demeanour and eye-catching looks. Thriving in shrubby habitats and forest edges, these spirited sparrows declare their presence with their distinctive “drink-your-tea” call.
heir attire is a dramatic display of black on their back and head, enhanced by deep rufous sides and a lively white underbelly. Employing spirited scratching and hopping, they diligently explore beneath fallen leaves to uncover concealed gems.
Eastern Towhees establish their nests either on or close to the ground, cleverly concealed within thick vegetation or shrubs. Using twigs, leaves, and rootlets, they meticulously construct a hidden shelter, ensuring a safe refuge for their eggs and young.
Their diet is diverse, encompassing insects, spiders, seeds, fruits, and occasionally small reptiles or amphibians. With their robust beaks, they adeptly scratch and probe the ground for sustenance.
While their populations remain stable, the potential threats of habitat loss and fragmentation loom. To counter these challenges, conservation endeavours concentrate on preserving and revitalizing suitable shrubby habitats, pivotal for their nesting and foraging endeavours.
8. Savannah Sparrow
- Scientific name: Passerculus sandwichensis
- Life span: 3-7 years
- Size: 5.5-6.7 in / 14-17 cm
- Weight: 0.5-0.9 oz / 14-26 g
- Wingspan: 7.9-9.4 in / 20-24 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
The Savannah Sparrow is widespread across North America, from the Arctic to Central America. It features a streaked brown back, a whitish underbelly, and a distinctive yellowish eyebrow, often seen in open fields and grasslands.
Savannah Sparrows build cup-shaped nests on the ground, hidden in dense grass or low shrubs. The nests are made from grasses and lined with finer materials. They lay 3-5 eggs, with the female incubating them for about 12 days.
Savannah Sparrows have a varied diet, including insects, spiders, and seeds. During the breeding season, insects dominate their diet, while seeds become more important in the winter. They forage on the ground, often in open fields and grasslands.
Savannah Sparrows are widespread and not considered at risk. Conservation efforts include maintaining grassland habitats and monitoring population trends. Historically, they have adapted well to different environments, but habitat preservation remains crucial for their continued success.
9. Grasshopper Sparrow
- Scientific name: Ammodramus savannarum
- Life span: 2-4 years
- Size: 4.7-5.5 in / 12-14 cm
- Weight: 0.4-0.6 oz / 12-18 g
- Wingspan: 6.3-7.9 in / 16-20 cm
- Status: Near Threatened
- State status: Breeding and common
Grasshopper Sparrows are small, flat-headed birds found in grasslands across North America. They are pale with a yellowish face and a distinctive, insect-like song, often seen perched low in grasses.
Grasshopper Sparrows nest on the ground in grasslands, often hidden in clumps of grass. The nests are constructed from grass and plant fibers, lined with finer materials. They lay 3-5 eggs, which hatch in about 11-12 days, with both parents feeding the young.
Grasshopper Sparrows primarily eat insects and seeds. During the breeding season, insects like grasshoppers and beetles are crucial for feeding the young. They forage on the ground, often in grasslands and open fields, switching to seeds from grasses and weeds during the non-breeding season.
Grasshopper Sparrows are generally stable but face habitat loss due to agricultural development. Conservation efforts focus on preserving grassland habitats and monitoring population trends. Historically, they have maintained stable populations, but ongoing efforts ensure their habitats remain protected.
10. Vesper Sparrow
- Scientific name: Pooecetes gramineus
- Life span: 2-5 years
- Size: 5.9 in / 15 cm
- Weight: 0.9-1.1 oz / 25-31 g
- Wingspan: 8.7-9.8 in / 22-25 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
Vesper Sparrows, found across North America, are known for their white outer tail feathers, streaked brown backs, and a faint white eye-ring. They frequent open fields and meadows, singing their distinctive evening songs.
Vesper Sparrows nest on the ground in grassy or weedy fields. Their nests are hidden in clumps of grass or under small shrubs, constructed from grass and lined with finer materials. They lay 3-5 eggs, which hatch in about 11-13 days, with the young fledging in around 10 days.
Vesper Sparrows consume seeds and insects. Insects are particularly important during the breeding season, providing necessary protein for the growing chicks. They forage on the ground, often in open fields, and switch to seeds from grasses and weeds during the winter months.
Vesper Sparrows are generally stable but face habitat loss due to agricultural development. Conservation efforts focus on preserving open grasslands and monitoring population trends. Historically, they have maintained stable populations, but continuous efforts are needed to protect their habitats.
11. Brewer’s Sparrow
- Scientific name: Spizella breweri
- Life span: 3-4 years
- Size: 4.7-5.1 in / 12-13 cm
- Weight: 0.4-0.5 oz / 11-14 g
- Wingspan: 7.1-7.5 in / 18-19 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
Brewer’s Sparrow is common in the arid sagebrush regions of the western US and Canada. This small, grayish-brown bird is known for its finely streaked back and plain face, making it well-adapted to its open, shrubland habitat.
Brewer’s Sparrows build their nests in shrubs, typically sagebrush, at a height of 1-3 feet. The nests are cup-shaped and made from grasses and plant fibers. They lay 3-4 eggs, which are incubated for about 11-13 days by the female.
Brewer’s Sparrows primarily eat insects during the breeding season, such as caterpillars and beetles. In the non-breeding season, they switch to seeds from grasses and forbs. They forage on the ground or low in vegetation, often in dry, open habitats.
Brewer’s Sparrows are generally stable but face habitat loss due to agriculture and development. Conservation efforts include protecting sagebrush habitats and monitoring populations. Historically, they have adapted to changes, but continuous efforts are essential to ensure their habitat is preserved.
12. Rufous Crowned Sparrow
- Scientific name: Aimophila ruficeps
- Life span: 4-5 years
- Size: 4.7-5.9 in / 12-15 cm
- Weight: 0.5-0.6 oz / 14-17 g
- Wingspan: 7.1-7.9 in / 18-20 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and rare
Rufous-crowned Sparrows are found in the southwestern US, easily identified by their rufous crown, gray face, and streaked brown back. They prefer rocky hillsides with sparse vegetation, where they can often be heard more than seen.
Rufous-crowned Sparrows build their nests on the ground, often tucked into clumps of grass or rocks. The nests are cup-shaped, made from grass, and lined with finer materials. They lay 3-5 eggs, which are incubated for about 11-13 days by the female.
Rufous-crowned Sparrows primarily consume seeds and insects. During the breeding season, they focus on insects like beetles and grasshoppers to feed their young. They forage on the ground, often in rocky or grassy areas, and switch to seeds during the winter months.
Rufous-crowned Sparrows are generally stable but can be affected by habitat destruction. Conservation efforts include protecting their preferred rocky and grassy habitats. Historically, they have maintained stable populations, although localized declines have occurred in areas of significant habitat disturbance.
13. Lark Bunting
- Scientific name: Calamospiza melanocorys
- Life span: 4-7 years
- Size: 5.1-6.3 in / 13-16 cm
- Weight: 1.1-1.3 oz / 31-37 g
- Wingspan: 9.4-10.2 in / 24-26 cm
- Status: Near Threatened
- State status: Breeding and common
The Lark Bunting, Colorado’s state bird, is found in the central US plains. Males are striking with their black bodies and white wing patches, while females are brown with streaked patterns, making them blend into the grasslands they inhabit.
Lark Buntings nest on the ground in open grasslands. Males display an elaborate courtship involving flight songs to attract females. The nests are shallow depressions lined with grass and leaves. They lay 3-5 eggs, with incubation lasting about 12 days.
Lark Buntings eat seeds and insects, with a preference for insects during the breeding season. Grasshoppers and beetles are common prey. They forage on the ground, often in large flocks, and their diet shifts to primarily seeds during the non-breeding season.
Lark Bunting populations are considered stable, although they face threats from habitat loss due to agriculture. Conservation efforts focus on preserving prairie ecosystems. Historically, they have experienced fluctuations in population sizes but remain relatively abundant in suitable habitats.
14. Clay-colored Sparrow
- Scientific name: Spizella pallida
- Life span: 4-7 years
- Size: 4.7-5.9 in / 12-15 cm
- Weight: 0.4-0.7 oz / 12-20 g
- Wingspan: 7.1-7.9 in / 18-20 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and common
Clay-coloured Sparrows, breeding in central Canada and the northern US, have pale, sandy plumage with a distinctive gray nape and a white central crown stripe. They are often seen in shrubby fields and grasslands.
Clay-coloured Sparrows build their nests in shrubs or low trees, typically placing them a few feet above the ground. The nests are constructed from grass, twigs, and plant fibers, lined with softer materials. They lay 3-5 eggs, which hatch in about 11-14 days, with the young fledging in around 10-12 days.
Clay-coloured Sparrows primarily consume seeds and insects. During the breeding season, insects like beetles and caterpillars are essential for feeding the young. They forage on the ground or in low vegetation, often in open woodlands and shrubby areas, switching to seeds during the non-breeding season.
Clay-coloured Sparrows are generally stable, but habitat loss due to agriculture can pose threats. Conservation efforts focus on preserving open woodlands and shrubby areas. Historically, they have maintained stable populations, but ongoing monitoring ensures their habitats remain protected.
15. Green-Tailed Towhee
- Scientific name: Pipilo chlorurus
- Life span: 6-7 years
- Size: 6.3-7.5 in / 16-19 cm
- Weight: 0.7-1.2 oz / 20-34 g
- Wingspan: 9.8-11.8 in / 25-30 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
The Green-tailed Towhee is a striking bird of the western US, with olive-green upperparts, a gray head, and a distinctive rufous crown. Its white throat and long, green tail make it easily recognizable in the dense brush where it breeds.
Green-tailed Towhees build their nests low in dense vegetation, typically under shrubs or grass clumps. The nests are constructed by the females from twigs, bark, and grasses, lined with animal hair. They lay 3-4 eggs, which hatch in about 12 days.
These towhees are omnivorous, eating seeds, berries, and insects. During the breeding season, insects become more important, especially for feeding their young. They forage on the ground, scratching through leaf litter with both feet to uncover food.
Green-tailed Towhees are not currently considered threatened. Conservation efforts include habitat preservation, particularly in their mountain and desert grassland environments. Historically, their populations have remained stable, with occasional monitoring to ensure they are not impacted by environmental changes.
16. Harris’s Sparrow
- Scientific name: Zonotrichia querula
- Life span: 4-5 years
- Size: 6.7-7.5 in / 17-19 cm
- Weight: 1.2-1.5 oz / 34-43 g
- Wingspan: 10.6-11.8 in / 27-30 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
Harris’s Sparrows, breeding in northern Canada and migrating through central North America, are striking with their black face, pink bill, and white belly. They are often found in open woodlands and shrubby fields.
Harris’s Sparrows build their nests on the ground in dense shrubs or tall grass. The nests are constructed from grass, twigs, and plant fibers, lined with finer materials. They lay 3-5 eggs, which hatch in about 12-14 days, with both parents feeding the young until they fledge.
Harris’s Sparrows primarily eat seeds and insects. During the breeding season, insects like beetles and caterpillars are crucial for feeding the young. They forage on the ground or in low vegetation, often in shrubby areas, switching to seeds from grasses and weeds during the non-breeding season.
Harris’s Sparrows are generally stable, but habitat loss and climate change can pose threats. Conservation efforts focus on preserving their breeding and wintering habitats. Historically, they have maintained stable populations, benefiting from monitoring and conservation programs to ensure their habitats remain intact.
17. Spotted Towhee
- Scientific name: Pipilo maculatus
- Life span: 6-10 years
- Size: 6.3-8.7 in / 16-22 cm
- Weight: 1.1-1.5 oz / 31-43 g
- Wingspan: 7.9-9.8 in / 20-25 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
Spotted Towhees inhabit the western US, recognized by their black heads, backs, and wings, with white spots and rufous sides. Females are similar but brown where males are black, often seen in dense underbrush.
Spotted Towhees nest close to the ground in dense shrubs or underbrush. Their nests are made from leaves, bark, and grass, lined with finer materials. Females lay 3-5 eggs, which are incubated for about 12-14 days, with the young fledging around 10 days later.
Spotted Towhees primarily eat insects and seeds. Insects, such as beetles, ants, and caterpillars, are crucial during the breeding season. They forage by scratching in leaf litter and soil, often in dense vegetation, and consume seeds from various plants during the winter.
Spotted Towhees are considered stable but face habitat loss due to urban development. Conservation efforts include habitat preservation and restoration. Historically, their populations have remained robust, but ongoing monitoring ensures they continue to thrive in suitable environments.
18. Black-throated Sparrow
- Scientific name: Amphispiza bilineata
- Life span: 3-5 years
- Size: 5.5-6.3 in / 14-16 cm
- Weight: 0.7-0.8 oz / 20-24 g
- Wingspan: 7.9-8.7 in / 20-22 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
Black-throated Sparrows inhabit the deserts of the southwestern US, recognized by their striking black throat, white eyebrow, and gray back. Their sharp, contrasting markings make them stand out in arid landscapes.
Black-throated Sparrows nest in shrubs or low trees, often placing their nests a few feet above the ground. The nests are constructed from grass, twigs, and plant fibers, lined with softer materials. They lay 3-5 eggs, which are incubated for about 11-14 days by the female.
Black-throated Sparrows primarily consume seeds and insects. During the breeding season, insects like beetles and grasshoppers are essential for feeding the young. They forage on the ground or in low shrubs, often in arid environments, and switch to seeds during the non-breeding season.
Black-throated Sparrows are generally stable, but habitat destruction can pose threats. Conservation efforts focus on protecting their desert and shrubland habitats. Historically, they have maintained stable populations, although localized declines have been noted in areas of significant habitat alteration.
19. Sagebrush Sparrow
- Scientific name: Artemisiospiza nevadensis
- Life span: 2-3 years
- Size: 5.1-5.9 in / 13-15 cm
- Weight: 0.4-0.5 oz / 11-14 g
- Wingspan: 6.7-7.5 in / 17-19 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and rare
Sagebrush Sparrows are found in the sagebrush steppes of the western US. They have gray heads, white underparts, and brown backs, with a distinctive white eye-ring, often seen flitting through low shrubs.
Sagebrush Sparrows build their nests in low shrubs, often sagebrush, at a height of 1-3 feet. The nests are cup-shaped and made from grasses and plant fibers. They lay 3-5 eggs, which hatch in about 11-13 days, with both parents feeding the young.
Sagebrush Sparrows primarily consume insects and seeds. During the breeding season, insects like beetles and caterpillars are crucial for feeding the young. They forage on the ground or in low shrubs, often in arid sagebrush habitats, switching to seeds during the non-breeding season.
Sagebrush Sparrows face habitat loss due to agricultural development and land-use changes. Conservation efforts focus on preserving sagebrush ecosystems. Historically, they have maintained stable populations, but ongoing monitoring and habitat protection are essential to ensure their survival.
20. Cassin’s Sparrow
- Scientific name: Peucaea cassinii
- Life span: 4-5 years
- Size: 5.1-6.0 in / 13-15
- Weight: 0.6-0.7 oz / 17-20 g
- Wingspan: 7.9 in / 20 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and rare
Cassin’s Sparrows are found in the southwestern US, notable for their plain grayish-brown appearance with fine streaks. They prefer grassy, shrubby areas and are best known for their skylarking flight displays during breeding season.
Cassin’s Sparrows build their nests on the ground, hidden in dense grass or low shrubs. The nests are constructed from grass and plant fibers, lined with softer materials. They lay 3-5 eggs, which hatch in about 12-14 days, with the young fledging in around 10-12 days.
Cassin’s Sparrows primarily eat seeds and insects. During the breeding season, insects like grasshoppers and beetles are crucial for feeding the young. They forage on the ground, often in grasslands and shrublands, and switch to seeds during the non-breeding season.
Cassin’s Sparrows are generally stable, but habitat loss due to agriculture can pose threats. Conservation efforts focus on preserving grassland and shrubland habitats. Historically, they have maintained stable populations, but ongoing monitoring ensures their habitats remain protected.
21. Canyon Towhee
- Scientific name: Melozone fusca
- Life span: 4-7 years
- Size: 8.3-9.1 in / 21-23 cm
- Weight: 1.3-1.7 oz / 37-48 g
- Wingspan: 11.5 in / 29 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and rare
The Canyon Towhee, found in the southwestern US, is a modest brown bird with a long tail and a slightly rufous undertail. Its unassuming plumage helps it blend into the dry, rocky habitats it prefers.
Canyon Towhees nest in shrubs or low trees, typically placing their nests well-hidden from predators. The nests are constructed from twigs, grass, and leaves, and lined with finer materials. They lay 2-5 eggs, which are incubated for about 12 days by the female.
Canyon Towhees forage on the ground, eating seeds, berries, and insects. They are often seen scratching the ground with both feet to uncover food. Their diet varies seasonally, with a higher intake of insects during the breeding season and seeds in the winter.
Canyon Towhees are generally stable, but habitat destruction can pose threats. Conservation efforts focus on protecting their desert and shrubland habitats. Historically, they have maintained stable populations, although local declines have been noted in areas of significant habitat alteration.
22. White-crowned Sparrow
- Scientific name: Zonotrichia leucophrys
- Life span: 6-13 years
- Size: 6.7-7.9 in / 17-20 cm
- Weight: 0.9-1.4 oz / 26-40 g
- Wingspan: 9.8-11.8 in / 25-30 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and common
The White-crowned Sparrow, seen across North America, is easily identified by its bold black and white striped crown. It has a gray face and underparts with brown wings and back, often spotted in open areas and brushy habitats.
White-crowned Sparrows nest on or near the ground in dense vegetation, often in shrubs or grasses. Nests are built by females from twigs, grass, and moss. They lay 3-5 eggs, which hatch after about 11-14 days, with both parents feeding the chicks.
White-crowned Sparrows primarily eat seeds and insects. During the breeding season, they consume more insects, such as beetles and caterpillars, to feed their young. In winter, their diet shifts to seeds from grasses and weeds, foraged from the ground or low vegetation.
White-crowned Sparrows are not currently threatened, but habitat loss and climate change pose potential risks. Conservation efforts include habitat protection and monitoring population trends. Historically, their populations have been stable, benefiting from extensive natural habitats across North America.
23. Lincoln’s Sparrow
- Scientific name: Melospiza lincolnii
- Life span: 3-5 years
- Size: 4.7-5.9 in / 12-15 cm
- Weight: 0.4-0.6 oz / 12-18 g
- Wingspan: 7.1-7.9 in / 18-20 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and common
Lincoln’s Sparrow is found across North America, particularly in Canada and the western United States. It has a streaked brown back, a gray face with a subtle buffy eye-ring, and a buffy chest with fine streaks, making it blend seamlessly into shrubby habitats.
Lincoln’s Sparrows prefer nesting in dense, shrubby areas near water. Females build well-hidden cup-shaped nests on the ground, using grass, moss, and animal hair. They lay 3-5 eggs, which hatch after about 12 days, with both parents feeding the young.
In summer, Lincoln’s Sparrows primarily consume insects like beetles, caterpillars, and spiders. During winter, they switch to seeds and small fruits. Their foraging habit involves hopping on the ground or low vegetation, often in dense cover to stay hidden from predators.
Lincoln’s Sparrows are considered stable and not currently at risk. Conservation efforts focus on protecting their wetland and shrubby habitats. Historical records indicate consistent populations, with ongoing monitoring to ensure their environments remain conducive to their survival and breeding.
24. Fox Sparrow
- Scientific name: Passerella iliaca
- Life span: 3-6 years
- Size: 6.7-7.9 in / 17-20 cm
- Weight: 1.4-1.8 oz / 40-52 g
- Wingspan: 10.2-11.8 in / 26-30 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
Fox Sparrows are large, chunky sparrows with significant geographic variation. In the western US, they are typically reddish with heavy streaks, while eastern birds are more grayish. They are often found in dense, brushy areas.
Fox Sparrows build their nests on the ground or low in shrubs, often in dense vegetation. The nests are constructed from grass, twigs, and plant fibers, lined with finer materials. They lay 3-5 eggs, which hatch in about 12-14 days, with both parents feeding the young.
Fox Sparrows primarily consume seeds and insects. During the breeding season, insects like beetles and caterpillars are essential for feeding the young. They forage on the ground or in low vegetation, often in dense shrubs and thickets, switching to seeds during the non-breeding season.
Fox Sparrows are generally stable, but habitat loss and climate change can pose threats. Conservation efforts focus on preserving dense shrub and thicket habitats. Historically, they have maintained stable populations, benefiting from a wide range of suitable habitats across North America.
25. Nelson’s Sparrow
- Scientific name: Ammospiza nelsoni
- Life span: 2-3 years
- Size: 4.7-5.5 in / 12-14 cm
- Weight: 0.4-0.6 oz / 12-18 g
- Wingspan: 6.7-7.5 in / 17-19 cm
- Status: Near Threatened
- State status: Migratory and rare
Nelson’s Sparrows breed in the northern US and Canada, wintering along the Gulf Coast. They have a striking orange face with gray cheeks and finely streaked upperparts, preferring marshy habitats.
Nelson’s Sparrows build their nests in dense vegetation, often in marshes or wet meadows. The nests are constructed from grass and sedges, elevated slightly to avoid flooding. They lay 3-5 eggs, which hatch in about 12-14 days, with both parents feeding the young.
Nelson’s Sparrows primarily consume insects and seeds. During the breeding season, insects like beetles and flies are essential for feeding the young. They forage in dense marsh vegetation, switching to seeds from grasses and sedges during the non-breeding season.
Nelson’s Sparrows face habitat loss due to wetland drainage and development. Conservation efforts focus on protecting and restoring wetland habitats. Historically, their populations have been stable, but ongoing conservation programs are essential to safeguard their specialized habitats.
26. Field Sparrow
- Scientific name: Spizella pusilla
- Life span: 4-6 years
- Size: 4.7-5.5 in / 12-14 cm
- Weight: 0.4-0.6 oz / 12-18 g
- Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 in / 19-22 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and rare
Field Sparrows, found in eastern and central North America, are small, with a pink bill, a rusty cap, and a clear, buffy breast. They inhabit open fields and brushy areas, where their plaintive song is a common sound.
Field Sparrows build their nests on the ground or low in shrubs, often in open fields or grasslands. The nests are constructed from grass, twigs, and plant fibers, lined with finer materials. They lay 3-5 eggs, which hatch in about 11-12 days, with both parents feeding the young.
Field Sparrows primarily consume seeds and insects. During the breeding season, insects like beetles and caterpillars are essential for feeding the young. They forage on the ground or in low vegetation, often in open fields and grasslands, switching to seeds during the non-breeding season.
Field Sparrows are generally stable but face habitat loss due to agricultural development. Conservation efforts focus on preserving open fields and grasslands. Historically, they have maintained stable populations, but ongoing monitoring ensures their habitats remain protected.
Where to find Sparrows in Colorado
Finding sparrows in Colorado is a delightful adventure for any bird lover. Start your journey in the open grasslands of Pawnee National Grassland, where Lark Buntings flutter about. Head to Rocky Mountain National Park for a chance to spot the elusive Lincoln’s Sparrow among the dense shrubs.
The Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge is perfect for seeing a variety of sparrows, including the Savannah Sparrow, in its wet meadows. Lastly, explore the plains of Chatfield State Park, where Brewer’s Sparrows are often seen. Bring your binoculars, a field guide, and enjoy the thrill of discovering these charming birds in their natural habitats.
Conclusion
Exploring the sparrows of Colorado offers a unique glimpse into the state’s vibrant ecosystems. From the plains to the mountains, each species adds its own charm. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a casual observer, the diversity and beauty of Colorado’s sparrows make every birdwatching trip a memorable adventure.
