In the heartland of America, the state of Missouri provides a welcoming haven for a diverse community of sparrows, each with its own unique story to tell. From the bustling urban centers to the tranquil prairies and wetlands, Missouri’s varied landscapes host a tapestry of sparrows, from the familiar to the more elusive.
These unassuming songbirds, with their subtle plumage and distinctive calls, paint a vivid portrait of life in the Show-Me State.
In this article, we embark on a journey into the vibrant world of sparrows in Missouri. We delve into their fascinating nesting behaviours, explore their dietary preferences, and uncover the rich tapestry of conservation efforts that play a pivotal role in sustaining these avian residents.
As we traverse the state’s diverse ecosystems, we discover the remarkable adaptations and intricate roles that sparrows play in the natural balance of Missouri’s landscapes, revealing that even the most common backyard sparrows have stories worth telling.
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: Migratory and common
Song Sparrows inhabit North America, displaying a streaked appearance with a central spot on their chest. They vary in plumage across their range.
Song Sparrows are common breeding birds in Missouri, favouring a variety of habitats. They create nests in dense vegetation, often concealed within shrubs and grasses.
These sparrows have a diverse diet, including insects, seeds, and aquatic invertebrates. Their feeding habits vary with the seasons and available food sources.
Conservation efforts in Missouri focus on preserving the habitats where Song Sparrows thrive, including wetlands and riparian zones.
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 widespread globally due to human association. Males have distinctive black throats and grey heads, while females are more subdued.
House Sparrows are year-round residents in Missouri, often nesting in urban and suburban areas. They build their nests in protected nooks and crannies of buildings and structures, using various materials.
These sparrows are opportunistic omnivores, consuming grains, insects, and human food scraps. Their adaptability to human environments has led to their success.
House Sparrows are considered invasive in many regions, including Missouri. While common, efforts to manage their populations in certain areas are in place.
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
Found in eastern North America, Swamp Sparrows sport rusty wings and a greyish face. They are known for their distinct, chipper call and preference for wetland habitats.
Swamp Sparrows in Missouri prefer wetland habitats for their nests, often placed within dense vegetation close to water bodies. Their cup-shaped nests are woven from reeds and grasses, providing a concealed refuge.
These sparrows are opportunistic omnivores, enjoying insects, seeds, and aquatic vegetation. They forage along the water’s edge with agile movements.
Swamp Sparrows are relatively common in Missouri’s wetlands. Conservation efforts focus on preserving and restoring these critical habitats that sustain their populations.
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 have a wide distribution across North America. They are recognized by their slate-grey plumage with white undersides and their pink bills. Diverse subspecies exhibit variations in plumage.
Dark-eyed Juncos nest in the higher elevations of Missouri’s forests, often in conifers. Their nests are well-concealed, made from twigs, leaves, and moss, creating a snug haven for their chicks.
These ground-foraging sparrows primarily feed on seeds and occasionally insects. Their presence in Missouri varies with the seasons.
Dark-eyed Juncos are common winter visitors to Missouri, with stable populations. Conservation efforts concentrate on maintaining healthy forest ecosystems, which provide vital wintering habitat for these charming sparrows.
5. White-throated Sparrow
- Scientific name: Zonotrichia albicollis
- Life span: 5-10 years
- Size: 6.3-7.5 in / 16-19 cm
- Weight: 0.9-1.3 oz / 25-38 g
- Wingspan: 8.7-9.8 in / 22-25 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and common
Inhabiting North America, White-throated Sparrows feature crisp black-and-white head stripes, yellow patches near the eyes, and a white throat patch. Their plumage includes brown streaking on the back.
White-throated Sparrows nest in dense shrubs and understory vegetation in Missouri’s woodlands. They craft cup-shaped nests from twigs, grass, and leaves, skilfully hidden in the foliage.
These sparrows are omnivorous, consuming insects, seeds, and berries. Their distinctive “Old Sam Peabody, Peabody, Peabody” song adds charm to the Missouri woodlands.
White-throated Sparrows are common breeding birds in Missouri’s forests. Conservation efforts center on preserving the diverse habitats they inhabit.
6. 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
These sparrows inhabit northern North America. They have a rusty cap, a dark spot on their chest, and greyish face. Their plumage is well-suited for their cold northern range.
American Tree Sparrows select higher latitudes for breeding, but they are common winter visitors in Missouri. Their nests are well-hidden in shrubs and low trees, crafted from grasses and twigs.
These sparrows primarily feed on seeds, particularly during the winter months in Missouri. Their diet includes a variety of grass and weed seeds.
Conservation efforts in Missouri primarily focus on ensuring suitable habitats and food sources for American Tree Sparrows during their winter visits.
7. 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 inhabits North America, particularly in the United States and southern Canada. It displays a crisp, rusty cap with a white eyebrow stripe and a greyish body. Their small size and distinct facial markings make them easily identifiable.
Chipping Sparrows in Missouri are meticulous architects, crafting cup-shaped nests from twigs, grass, and rootlets. They often choose conifers, shrubs, or low branches for their homes, carefully hidden from prying eyes, where they raise their broods with parental devotion.
These dainty sparrows are avid seed-eaters, relishing a variety of seeds from plants and weeds. During nesting, they also incorporate insects into their diet, ensuring their young receive a protein-rich meal.
Chipping Sparrows are common residents in Missouri. Their adaptability to suburban environments has bolstered their populations. While not a species of immediate concern, ongoing habitat preservation remains vital for the continued success of these delightful sparrows.
8. 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
The Eastern Towhee is a striking bird distributed across eastern North America. Males feature striking black plumage, while females are brown. Their white bellies and red eyes are distinctive.
Eastern Towhees are skilled nest-builders in Missouri’s woodlands. They create well-concealed nests, often low to the ground in shrubs or thickets, carefully protecting their clutch from predators.
These striking birds have an eclectic diet, feasting on insects, seeds, and berries. Their foraging behaviour is marked by a vigorous scratching and hopping movement in leaf litter.
Conservation Effort & History: Eastern Towhees are relatively common in Missouri, with stable populations. The preservation of diverse woodland habitats is crucial to sustaining their numbers in the state’s diverse ecosystems.
9. 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 common
Found in the eastern United States, the Field Sparrow boasts a warm buff-coloured face with a pink bill. Its subtle streaked plumage and pinkish bill set it apart. These sparrows are often seen in open fields and grassy habitats.
Field Sparrows in Missouri weave their nests amid grasses and shrubs, creating secure homes for their young. These diligent parents construct nests from grasses and twigs, often nestled close to the ground in grassy meadows and open fields.
Field Sparrows are primarily granivores, favouring seeds from wildflowers and grasses. During the breeding season, they complement their diet with insects, ensuring a balanced meal plan for their nestlings.
Field Sparrows enjoy a stable presence in Missouri’s open habitats. While not considered rare, they benefit from continued conservation efforts to preserve grassland ecosystems, which are essential to their survival.
10. 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: Migratory and common
Savannah Sparrows are distributed across North America. They have a streaked appearance, yellow above the eye, and a small yellow spot on their face.
Savannah Sparrows in Missouri nest in grasslands, constructing cup-shaped nests from grasses and rootlets. Their nests are well-camouflaged amidst the tall vegetation.
These sparrows are primarily granivores, feasting on seeds from grasses and weeds. They supplement their diet with insects during the breeding season.
Savannah Sparrows are common breeding birds in Missouri’s grasslands. Conservation efforts emphasize maintaining open grassy habitats where they thrive.
11. 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 rare
Residing in North America, Grasshopper Sparrows exhibit a plain, streaked appearance, with subtle yellow above the eye. They are known for their distinctive insect-like song.
Grasshopper Sparrows are meticulous nest builders, often weaving their nests in grassy fields and meadows in Missouri. Their nests are cup-shaped and woven from grasses, providing shelter for their chicks.
Grasshopper Sparrows are primarily insectivorous, with a strong preference for grasshoppers and other insects. During the breeding season, they intensify their hunting efforts to feed their growing young.
In Missouri, Grasshopper Sparrows are designated as a species of conservation concern. Their populations have experienced declines due to habitat loss and changes in agricultural practices. Conservation initiatives aim to restore and maintain grassland habitats for their recovery.
12. Henslow’s Sparrow
- Scientific name: Ammodramus henslowii
- Life span: 1-3 years
- Size: 4.7-5.5 in / 12-14 cm
- Weight: 0.4-0.6 oz / 12-18 g
- Wingspan: 6.7-7.9 in / 17-20 cm
- Status: Near Threatened
- State status: Breeding and rare
This sparrow is found in the eastern United States. It boasts a subtle greenish hue on the wings and a distinctive flat head profile, often seen in grassy and shrubby habitats.
Henslow’s Sparrows create well-hidden nests in the tall grasses and wetlands of Missouri. Their nests are skilfully woven from grass blades and carefully concealed amidst the dense vegetation.
These sparrows primarily feed on insects and small invertebrates. Their hunting style involves hopping through the grasses, capturing prey with precision.
Henslow’s Sparrows are designated as a species of conservation concern in Missouri. The decline in their populations is largely attributed to habitat loss, particularly the conversion of grasslands. Conservation efforts focus on preserving and restoring suitable wetland and grassland habitats.
13. Vesper Sparrow
- Scientific name: Pooecetes gramineus
- Life span: 2-5 years
- Size: 5.9 in / 15 cm
- Weight: 0.5-0.9 oz / 14-26 g
- Wingspan: 8.7-9.8 in / 22-25 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
Vesper Sparrows reside in North America. They have a plain face, a distinct white eye ring, and bold streaking on their back.
Vesper Sparrows are grassland enthusiasts, often nesting in fields and prairies. Their nests are well-concealed on the ground amidst grasses and are made from fine plant materials.
These sparrows are primarily granivores, consuming a variety of seeds from grasses and wildflowers. Their foraging behaviour includes ground scratching and pecking.
Vesper Sparrows are considered rare breeders in Missouri, emphasizing the importance of conserving and restoring grassland habitats.
14. Lark Sparrow
- Scientific name: Chondestes grammacus
- Life span: 4-6 years
- Size: 5.9-6.7 in / 15-17 cm
- Weight: 0.7-1.1 oz / 20-31 g
- Wingspan: 9.1-10.2 in / 23-26 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
With a distinctive facial pattern and chestnut-coloured crown, the Lark Sparrow is native to North America. Its plumage features bold streaks on the back and a white belly, making it stand out in grassy habitats.
Lark Sparrows in Missouri showcase their architectural skills by creating cup-shaped nests of grasses and rootlets, often on the ground or in shrubs. Their nesting behaviour reflects their preference for open grasslands and agricultural areas.
These sparrows are versatile omnivores, adding insects and seeds to their menu. Their varied diet complements their adaptability to a wide range of habitats.
Lark Sparrows are considered common in Missouri’s grasslands and farmlands. Conservation efforts center on maintaining suitable nesting habitats and protecting their favoured environments.
15. 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 rare
White-crowned Sparrows are seen across North America. They have striking black-and-white stripes on their head and a distinctive white crown. Their plumage varies with age.
White-crowned Sparrows select shrubby habitats in Missouri for their nests, often at low heights. Their nests are constructed with finesse, woven from twigs, grass, and leaves, offering a secure haven for their young.
These sparrows have a diverse diet, consuming insects, seeds, and berries. Their foraging style involves scratching through leaf litter and probing for hidden delicacies.
White-crowned Sparrows are common winter visitors in Missouri. Conservation efforts revolve around maintaining suitable habitats and protecting vital stopover locations during migration.
16. 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 rare
Found in North America, Lincoln’s Sparrows have a subtle facial pattern, with fine streaks on their back and a buffy breast.
Lincoln’s Sparrows in Missouri nest in shrubby wetlands and marshes. Their nests are skilfully hidden among dense vegetation and are made from grasses and reeds.
These sparrows are insectivorous, primarily feeding on insects and small invertebrates. They forage near the water’s edge with agile movements.
Lincoln’s Sparrows are considered rare breeders in Missouri. Conservation efforts focus on preserving and restoring wetland habitats that support their nesting needs.
17. 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 common
Fox Sparrows are seen in North America. They have a robust build, rich reddish-brown plumage, and a heavily streaked chest.
Fox Sparrows are primarily found in Missouri during migration and winter. Their nests are well-concealed in dense shrubs or on the ground, woven from grasses and twigs.
These sparrows have a varied diet, including seeds, insects, and berries. During their stay in Missouri, they are known for their scratching and rummaging for food.
Conservation efforts in Missouri revolve around preserving the diverse habitats that support Fox Sparrows during their migratory and winter periods.
18. Clay-coloured 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 rare
Clay-coloured Sparrows are found in western North America. They are recognized by their plain, pale face and greyish plumage.
Clay-coloured Sparrows are occasionally found in Missouri during migration. Their nests are constructed in shrubs and low vegetation, woven from fine grasses and plant materials.
These sparrows are primarily granivores, feeding on seeds from grasses and weeds. They forage for seeds on the ground and in low vegetation.
Conservation efforts in Missouri aim to protect and restore diverse habitats that provide stopover locations for Clay-coloured Sparrows during migration.
19. LeConte’s Sparrow
- Scientific name: Ammospiza leconteii
- Life span: 2-3 years
- Size: 4.3-5.1 in / 11-13 cm
- Weight: 0.4-0.6 oz / 12-18 g
- Wingspan: 5.9-6.7 in / 15-17 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
LeConte’s Sparrows are known for their small size and intricate facial pattern. They frequent grassy habitats in North America.
LeConte’s Sparrows are occasional winter visitors to Missouri. Their nests are hidden within wetland vegetation and are made from grasses and sedges.
These sparrows are insectivorous, primarily feeding on insects and small invertebrates. They forage in dense wetland habitats.
LeConte’s Sparrows are considered rare in Missouri. Conservation efforts focus on preserving and restoring wetland habitats to support their wintering needs.
20. 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: Migratory and rare
Spotted Towhees are found in western North America. They are known for their striking black plumage, white spots on their wings, and red eyes.
Spotted Towhees are primarily found in the western United States but are occasional visitors to Missouri. Their nests are often concealed in shrubs and low vegetation, constructed from twigs and grasses.
These sparrows are omnivores, consuming seeds, insects, and berries. Their foraging behaviour includes scratching through leaf litter and probing for food.
Spotted Towhees are considered rare visitors to Missouri, and conservation efforts focus on preserving diverse habitats that may attract these striking birds.
21. 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 are native to North America, with striking black bibs and contrasting pink bills. They are known for their distinctive appearance.
Harris’s Sparrows breed in northern Canada and winter in parts of the central United States, including Missouri. Their nests are concealed in shrubs and low vegetation, woven from twigs and grasses.
These sparrows have an omnivorous diet, consuming seeds, insects, and berries. Their foraging behaviour varies with the season.
Harris’s Sparrows are common winter visitors to Missouri, and conservation efforts focus on maintaining suitable wintering habitats.
22. Bachman’s Sparrow
- Scientific name: Peucaea aestivalis
- Life span: 5-6 years
- Size: 4.7-5.5 in / 12-14 cm
- Weight: 0.5-0.8 oz / 14-22 g
- Wingspan: 7.9-8.7 in / 20-22 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and rare
Inhabiting the southeastern United States, Bachman’s Sparrows boast a plain plumage with subtle streaks on their backs.
Bachman’s Sparrows are found in the southeastern United States but are rare visitors to Missouri. Their nests are built in shrubby habitats and are constructed from grasses and plant materials.
These sparrows primarily feed on insects and seeds, foraging in the dense undergrowth of their preferred habitats.
Bachman’s Sparrows are considered rare visitors to Missouri, emphasizing the importance of conserving their southeastern habitats.
Where to find Sparrows in Missouri
Finding sparrows in Missouri can be a rewarding experience for bird enthusiasts. These small, chirpy birds can be found across various habitats in the state, including grasslands, farmlands, wetlands, and even urban areas.
To spot sparrows in Missouri, you’ll need to know where to look and how to identify them. Here are four good areas to find sparrows and some tips on how to do it:
- Conservation Areas and Wildlife Refuges: Missouri is home to several conservation areas and wildlife refuges that provide ideal habitats for sparrows. Areas like Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge in Chariton County, Ted Shanks Conservation Area in Pike County, and Clarence Cannon National Wildlife Refuge in Pike County offer great opportunities to spot sparrows. Visit these locations during the spring and fall migration seasons when sparrows are more active.
- Grasslands and Prairie Reserves: Sparrows are often found in grasslands and prairies, making places like Wah’Kon-Tah Prairie in St. Clair County and Grand River Grasslands Conservation Area in Gentry County excellent choices. Look for sparrows in the tall grasses and listen for their distinctive songs.
- Farms and Agricultural Fields: Agricultural areas with fields, pastures, and hedgerows are favourite hangouts for sparrows, especially during the winter months when food sources are scarce. Check out rural areas in the northern and central parts of the state, like Boone County or Livingston County.
- Urban and Suburban Parks: Don’t overlook urban and suburban areas for sparrows. Parks, green spaces, and even your own backyard can attract sparrows, especially if you provide bird feeders and brush piles for cover. Common species like House Sparrows and White-crowned Sparrows can often be found in these settings.
Tips for Spotting Sparrows:
- Learn Their Songs: Sparrows are known for their distinctive songs. Familiarize yourself with the songs of different sparrow species to help with identification.
- Use Binoculars: Sparrows can be small and easily overlooked, so a good pair of binoculars is essential for getting a closer look.
- Study Field Guides: Carry a field guide or use a bird identification app to help identify sparrows based on their markings and behaviours.
- Patience is Key: Sparrows can be shy and may require patience to observe closely. Sit quietly and wait for them to come out of hiding.
In Missouri, birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts have ample opportunities to find sparrows in diverse habitats. Whether you explore conservation areas, grasslands, farms, or urban parks, the key to success lies in understanding their habitats and recognizing their songs and appearances.
Conclusion
In Missouri, the world of sparrows unveils a captivating avian diversity. From the prairies to the urban parks, these small yet resilient birds offer birdwatchers and nature lovers a delightful treasure hunt.
With the right locations, identification skills, and a dash of patience, spotting sparrows becomes an enriching experience. So, grab your binoculars, venture into the heart of Missouri’s varied landscapes, and embrace the enchanting world of sparrows that call this state home.
