Nestled in the heart of the Great Plains, Oklahoma is home to a variety of sparrows that add life and song to its diverse landscapes. From open fields to wooded areas, these small birds play a big role in the state’s ecosystem.
Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just curious about nature, exploring the sparrows of Oklahoma offers a glimpse into the rich wildlife that thrives here. In this article, we’ll dive into the different species of sparrows found across the state, their unique habits, and why they hold a special place in Oklahoma’s natural heritage.
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
Found across Oklahoma during migration, the Song Sparrow frequents wetlands and brushy areas. It has brown upperparts with heavy streaking and a central dark spot on its breast. A gray face with a rich brown eye line adds to its distinctive look. Known for its varied and melodious song, it often perches openly while singing.
Song Sparrows craft cup-shaped nests low in shrubs or grasses, using twigs and bark strips. The female typically lays three to five eggs, and both parents share in feeding the fledglings. They often nest near water sources.
Their diet includes seeds, fruits, and insects. Foraging on the ground or in low vegetation, they eat beetles, caterpillars, and grass seeds. In winter months, seeds become a primary food source.
With stable populations in Oklahoma, Song Sparrows aren’t currently at risk. Conservation efforts emphasize preserving natural habitats to ensure these melodious birds continue to grace the landscape.
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
The House Sparrow is a common resident throughout Oklahoma, thriving in urban and rural settings alike. Originally introduced from Europe, this bird has adapted well. Males feature a gray crown, chestnut nape, and a distinctive black bib, while females are brown with subtle streaks and a lighter eye stripe. They are often seen around human habitation.
House Sparrows build nests near human dwellings, often in crevices of buildings or streetlights. They create bulky nests from grass, feathers, and even scraps of paper. Remarkably prolific, they can raise multiple broods throughout the breeding season.
These adaptable birds consume a variety of foods, including grains, seeds, and insects. In urban areas, they’re known to scavenge crumbs and leftovers from humans. Their opportunistic feeding habits help them thrive alongside people.
Introduced from Europe in the 19th century, House Sparrows are now abundant across Oklahoma. They face no significant conservation concerns and sometimes outcompete native species. Efforts are not focused on them but rather on managing their impact.
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
Migrating through Oklahoma, the Swamp Sparrow inhabits marshes and wet meadows. It sports a rusty cap, gray face, and a clean gray breast, with warm brown wings and back. Subtle streaking and a slightly longer bill help distinguish it. This sparrow often stays low in dense vegetation, making it a challenge to spot.
Swamp Sparrows nest in wetlands, building nests close to the ground among cattails or reeds. The nests are well-hidden to protect from predators. Females lay three to five eggs and handle most of the incubation.
They primarily feed on insects like beetles, flies, and spiders during the breeding season. In colder months, they switch to seeds and small fruits found in marshy areas.
Common in suitable habitats, Swamp Sparrows benefit from wetland conservation. Efforts focus on protecting marshes and swamps vital for their breeding and feeding needs.
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
A common winter visitor in Oklahoma, the Dark-eyed Junco is easily recognized by its slate-gray head and back contrasting with a white belly. It has a pinkish bill and flashes white outer tail feathers in flight. Often seen in flocks, juncos frequent woodlands and backyards, foraging on the ground for seeds.
Dark-eyed Juncos nest on or near the ground, often hidden under logs, rocks, or dense foliage. The female crafts an open cup nest made of grasses, moss, and leaves, lined with soft materials. She lays three to five eggs, and both parents participate in feeding the chicks until they fledge in about 11 to 14 days.
Their diet mainly consists of seeds from weeds and grasses, making them common visitors to backyard feeders. During the breeding season, they supplement their diet with insects like beetles, caterpillars, and ants, providing essential protein for their young. They forage by hopping on the ground, scratching for food.
Dark-eyed Juncos are abundant and widespread, with populations considered stable. Classified as Least Concern, they have adapted well to human-altered landscapes. Ongoing monitoring ensures that any significant population changes are detected early for necessary conservation actions.
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
Migrating through Oklahoma, the White-throated Sparrow favours wooded areas and thickets. It features a striking white throat patch, yellow spots between the eye and bill, and a black-and-white striped head. Its plumage includes gray breast and brown back with some streaking. This bird is known for its clear, whistled song.
White-throated Sparrows migrate through Oklahoma but breed in northern forests. They nest on or near the ground, hidden under shrubs. Nests are constructed from twigs and grass, lined with fine materials.
They eat seeds, fruits, and insects, foraging on the ground in wooded areas. Insects are more prominent in their diet during breeding, while seeds are crucial in winter.
Populations are stable, but habitat loss in breeding areas is a concern. Conservation efforts aim to preserve forest habitats essential for nesting.
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
Wintering in Oklahoma, the American Tree Sparrow has a rusty cap and eye line contrasting with a gray face and nape. A small dark spot centers its plain gray breast. The back is brown with black streaks. It frequents open fields and weedy areas, often seen in flocks feeding on the ground.
American Tree Sparrows breed in the far northern tundra and boreal forests. They nest on or near the ground, often sheltered by shrubs or grass tussocks. The female builds the nest using grasses, moss, and feathers. She lays about four to six eggs, and both parents care for the nestlings until they fledge.
Their diet consists mainly of seeds from grasses and weeds, which they forage for on the ground. In the breeding season, they consume more insects like flies, beetles, and caterpillars to provide protein for their young. They often visit bird feeders during migration and winter months.
American Tree Sparrows are considered of Least Concern, with stable populations. However, climate change poses potential threats to their Arctic breeding habitats. Conservation efforts include monitoring population trends and studying the impacts of environmental changes on their breeding and wintering grounds.
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
Breeding throughout Oklahoma, the Chipping Sparrow is a slender bird with a bright rusty cap, a clean gray breast, and a distinctive black eye line running through a white eyebrow. Its back is brown with dark streaks. Common in open woods and suburban areas, it is often seen feeding on lawns.
Chipping Sparrows typically nest in trees or shrubs, placing their small, cup-shaped nests at varying heights. The female constructs the nest using grasses, rootlets, and animal hair, creating a delicate structure. She lays three to five pale blue eggs, incubating them for about 11 to 14 days while the male guards the territory.
These sparrows primarily consume seeds from grasses and weeds but eat more insects like caterpillars, beetles, and grasshoppers during the breeding season. This insect-rich diet provides necessary nutrients for their nestlings. They often forage on the ground or in low vegetation, occasionally visiting bird feeders.
Chipping Sparrows are common and widely distributed, with stable populations. Listed as Least Concern, they have adapted to various habitats. However, urban development can affect local populations, so conservation efforts include promoting native vegetation in urban and suburban areas to support their nesting and feeding needs.
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
Breeding in Oklahoma’s thickets and woodland edges, the Eastern Towhee is a striking bird. Males have a black head, back, and tail, with warm rufous sides and a white belly. Females are similar but brown where males are black. They often scratch noisily in leaf litter, searching for food under dense cover.
Nesting on or near the ground in dense shrubs. Nests are bulky cups made of leaves and bark. Females lay two to five eggs, both parents feed the young.
Feeding on seeds, fruits, and insects, they scratch the ground noisily to uncover food. Insects are important during breeding season.
Populations are stable, but habitat loss poses threats. Conservation focuses on preserving shrubland habitats and managing forests.
9. 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
Breeding in Oklahoma’s grasslands, the Savannah Sparrow is a small, streaked bird with a short tail. It often shows a yellowish eyebrow or lore spot. The breast is streaked, and the back is brown with darker streaks. Frequently found on the ground, it blends into its grassy surroundings, making it harder to detect.
Savannah Sparrows nest on the ground in grasslands, weaving grass and stems into cup-shaped nests. They choose concealed spots to protect from predators. Females lay three to five eggs.
Their diet includes seeds and insects. Foraging on the ground, they pick up beetles, ants, and grass seeds. Insects are especially important during breeding season.
While common, they face threats from habitat loss due to development. Conservation focuses on preserving open grasslands vital for their survival.
10. 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
The Grasshopper Sparrow breeds in Oklahoma’s prairies and grasslands. It is a small, chunky bird with a flat head, pale eye ring, and a distinctively unmarked buffy breast. The crown is dark with a central light stripe. Named for its insect-like song, it stays low in grasses, making it difficult to observe.
Grasshopper Sparrows nest on the ground, concealed among grasses in open fields and prairies. The female constructs a cup-shaped nest, often with a partial dome, using grasses and lining it with finer materials. She lays four to five eggs, and both parents feed the young. The nest’s hidden location helps protect against predators.
As their name suggests, Grasshopper Sparrows feed heavily on grasshoppers during the breeding season. They also consume other insects like beetles, crickets, and caterpillars. Seeds from grasses and weeds are a significant part of their diet outside the breeding season. They forage stealthily through vegetation on the ground.
Grasshopper Sparrows have experienced population declines due to loss of native grassland habitats. Considered a species of conservation concern, efforts focus on preserving and restoring grassland ecosystems, implementing sustainable agricultural practices, and promoting land management that benefits these sparrows.
11. 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
A rare breeder in Oklahoma, Henslow’s Sparrow inhabits tallgrass prairies and overgrown fields. It has an olive-green head, rust-coloured wings, and finely streaked breast and sides. A flat-headed appearance and short tail distinguish it. Secretive and often silent, it stays low in dense grasses, making sightings uncommon.
Nesting on the ground in tallgrass prairies. Nests are cup-shaped, hidden among dense grasses. Females lay three to five eggs, both parents care for young.
Primarily eating insects like grasshoppers and beetles, and some seeds. Foraging low in vegetation, they often remain unseen.
Declined due to prairie habitat loss. Conservation focuses on restoring grasslands and proper land management.
12. Vesper Sparrow
- Scientific name: Pooecetes gramineus
- Life span: 2-5 years
- Size: 5.9 in / 15 cm
- Weight: 5.9 in / 15 cm
- Wingspan: 8.7-9.8 in / 22-25 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
Breeding in Oklahoma’s open fields and grasslands, the Vesper Sparrow is noted for its white outer tail feathers and crisp streaking. It has a grayish-brown body, a white eye ring, and a slight chestnut patch on the shoulder. Often seen perched on fence posts or wires, it sings a sweet, whistling song, especially at dusk.
Vesper Sparrows nest on the ground in open fields, creating shallow depressions lined with grass and hair. They often choose spots near a tuft of grass for cover. The female lays three to five eggs.
Feeding on seeds and insects, they forage on the ground. In summer, insects like beetles and grasshoppers dominate their diet, while seeds are important in fall and winter.
Though common, habitat loss due to agriculture affects them. Conservation efforts include maintaining grasslands to support their breeding and foraging requirements.
13. 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
Breeding in the rocky hillsides and canyons of western Oklahoma, the Rufous-crowned Sparrow is a rare resident. It has a gray face with a rufous crown and eye stripe, and a plain gray breast. The back is brown with subtle streaking. Preferring arid habitats with sparse cover, it is often seen foraging on the ground.
Nesting on the ground under shrubs or rocks in arid areas. Nests are shallow cups made of grass and stems. Females lay three to four eggs.
Eating seeds and insects, foraging among rocks and sparse vegetation. Insects are important during breeding.
Stable but localized populations. Conservation focuses on preserving specialized habitats.
14. 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
A rare breeder in western Oklahoma’s grasslands, Cassin’s Sparrow is a plain-looking bird with grayish-brown plumage and a long tail. It has a faint eye ring and a subtle cheek pattern. Notable for its skylarking flight display during breeding season, it inhabits arid grasslands with scattered shrubs.
Cassin’s Sparrows nest on the ground under shrubs or grass clumps in arid grasslands and prairies. The male may build several display nests, but the female selects one to complete. She constructs a cup-shaped nest using grasses and plant fibers. She lays three to five eggs, and both parents feed the young.
Their diet includes insects and seeds. They forage on the ground, eating grasshoppers, beetles, and caterpillars during the breeding season—essential for their young’s growth. Seeds from grasses and forbs make up a significant portion of their diet year-round. Known for their skylarking display flights, they add vibrancy to the grasslands.
Cassin’s Sparrows are sensitive to habitat changes, with populations fluctuating due to rainfall and land use practices. Considered of Least Concern but monitored for declines, conservation efforts include preserving grassland habitats and implementing management practices that support their breeding and foraging needs.
15. 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
A rare migrant through Oklahoma, LeConte’s Sparrow inhabits wet meadows and grasslands. It is a small bird with a buffy orange face, gray ear patches, and a finely streaked back. Its short tail and secretive behaviour make it hard to spot. It typically stays low in dense grasses, flushing only when disturbed.
Nesting on the ground in wet meadows, weaving grass into dome-shaped nests. Hidden among dense grasses. Females lay four to five eggs.
They usually eat insects and seeds, foraging low in vegetation. Insects are vital during breeding season.
Affected by wetland drainage and habitat loss. Conservation focuses on preserving meadows and grasslands.
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 common
Migrating through Oklahoma, Harris’s Sparrow is notable as the largest sparrow in North America. Adults display a distinctive black face, crown, and bib, with a pink bill and gray cheeks. The back is brown with dark streaks. Often found in open fields and woodland edges, it forages on the ground in flocks.
Migrating through Oklahoma, they breed in Canadian tundra. Nests are on the ground under shrubs, made from moss and grass. Females lay three to five eggs.
Eating seeds, fruits, and insects. During migration, they forage on the ground in flocks. Insects are important during breeding.
As North America’s largest sparrow, they are closely monitored. Conservation focuses on protecting breeding and migratory habitats.
17. 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 rare
Breeding in the western parts of Oklahoma, the Lark Bunting is a rare visitor. Males in breeding plumage are striking with all-black bodies and a large white wing patch. Females and non-breeding males are brown and streaked. Preferring open grasslands and prairies, they are often seen perched on fences or shrubs.
Nesting on the ground in open prairies. Nests are built from grass, lined with softer materials. Females lay three to five eggs. Males display dramatic flight songs.
Feeding on insects and seeds, foraging on the ground. Insects dominate during breeding, crucial for young.
Populations fluctuate but have declined in some areas. Conservation focuses on preserving prairie ecosystems.
18. 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
Common in Oklahoma’s shrublands during breeding season, the Spotted Towhee is a striking bird. Males have a black head, back, and tail with white spots on wings and back, rufous sides, and a white belly. Females are similar but brown where males are black. They are often heard rustling in leaf litter.
Spotted Towhees nest on or near the ground under dense shrubs or brush piles in open woodlands and thickets. The female builds a cup-shaped nest using leaves, bark strips, and grasses, lined with fine materials. She lays two to six eggs, and both parents feed the nestlings, ensuring their growth.
Their diet includes insects, seeds, and fruits. They forage by scratching vigorously in leaf litter, uncovering beetles, caterpillars, spiders, and seeds. In the breeding season, insects are crucial for feeding their young, while seeds and berries become more important during other times.
Spotted Towhees are widespread with stable populations and are considered of Least Concern. They benefit from the availability of shrubby habitats, but urban development can impact local populations. Conservation efforts include maintaining thicket and brush habitats in both wild and suburban areas.
19. 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 rare
Found in the arid regions of western Oklahoma, the Black-throated Sparrow is a rare breeder. It boasts a striking black throat and breast, sharp white eyebrow and malar stripes, and gray upperparts. The back is brownish-gray without streaking. Preferring desert scrub and open areas with sparse vegetation, it is a distinctive sight.
Nesting in low shrubs or cacti in arid regions. Nests are cup-shaped, made of grasses and twigs. Females lay three to four eggs, both parents care for young.
Their diet includes seeds and insects. Foraging on the ground, they pick up seeds and catch insects, adapted to dry environments.
Populations are stable, but habitat degradation is a concern. Efforts aim to preserve desert scrub habitats vital for them.
20. 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
Common in Oklahoma during breeding season, the Lark Sparrow favours open habitats with scattered trees or shrubs. It features a bold facial pattern with chestnut, white, and black stripes, and a distinctive dark central spot on a clean white breast. The back is brown with dark streaks. Often seen foraging on the ground.
Nesting on the ground or in low shrubs. Nests are cup-shaped, made from grass and twigs. Females lay three to five eggs. Prefer open areas with scattered trees.
Including seeds and insects, they forage on the ground. Grasshoppers and beetles are important during breeding season.
Stable populations, but habitat changes affect local numbers. Efforts aim to maintain open habitats.
21. 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 passes through Oklahoma during migration. It is easily recognized by its bold black and white striped crown atop a gray face and breast. The back is brown with subtle streaks. Preferring brushy areas and woodland edges, it forages on the ground and is often seen in flocks.
Migrating through Oklahoma, White-crowned Sparrows nest farther north. They build cup-shaped nests on or near the ground in shrubs, using twigs and grass. Nests are lined with softer materials for comfort.
Their diet consists of seeds, fruits, and insects. Foraging on the ground, they often scratch through leaf litter. During migration, they visit backyards and parks in search of food.
With stable populations, they’re not considered at risk. Conservation focuses on protecting migratory pathways and northern breeding grounds to ensure their continued well-being.
22. 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 migrates through Oklahoma, preferring moist thickets and brushy areas. It has finely streaked buffy breast and sides, a gray face with a delicate eye ring, and a brown crown with a central gray stripe. Its subtle beauty is appreciated by birdwatchers who manage to glimpse this shy species.
Lincoln’s Sparrows build well-hidden, cup-shaped nests on or near the ground in dense vegetation, often in wet meadows or shrubby areas. The female constructs the nest using grasses, moss, and rootlets, providing a snug home for her clutch of three to five eggs. Both parents share the duties of feeding the nestlings until they fledge.
These sparrows primarily feed on insects and spiders during the breeding season, foraging low in vegetation or on the ground. In the non-breeding season, they switch to seeds and grains, adapting to seasonal food availability. Their flexible diet allows them to thrive in various habitats throughout the year
Lincoln’s Sparrows are considered of Least Concern due to their widespread distribution and stable populations. However, habitat loss from wetland drainage and land development poses localized threats. Conservation efforts focus on preserving wet meadows and riparian zones critical for their nesting and feeding.
23. 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
A rare migrant in Oklahoma, the Fox Sparrow is one of the larger sparrows with rich reddish-brown plumage. It has heavy streaking on the breast converging into a central spot and a grayish face with rufous markings. Preferring dense thickets, it often scratches in leaf litter foraging for food.
Fox Sparrows nest on or near the ground, often under shrubs or in dense thickets. The female builds a bulky cup nest made of twigs, bark strips, and moss, lined with fine grasses and hair. She lays three to five eggs, and both parents feed the chicks until they fledge, providing attentive care.
Their diet mainly consists of seeds and insects. They forage by scratching vigorously in leaf litter, uncovering beetles, ants, spiders, and various seeds. During migration and winter, they rely more heavily on seeds and berries, adapting to available food sources in different habitats.
Fox Sparrows are generally common, with stable populations across their range. Considered of Least Concern, conservation efforts focus on monitoring populations and preserving their varied habitats, which include boreal forests and brushy areas. Habitat loss and fragmentation are potential concerns in certain regions.
24. 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
A rare breeder in southeastern Oklahoma, Bachman’s Sparrow inhabits open pine forests and overgrown fields. It is a large sparrow with a plain gray face, a rusty crown, and warm brown upperparts with subtle streaking. Its underparts are pale with a hint of buff. Known for its elusive nature, it sings a sweet, musical song.
A rare breeder, nesting on the ground in open pine forests. Nests are cup-shaped, hidden under grasses. Females lay three to five eggs, preferring areas with grassy understory.
Eating insects and seeds, foraging on the ground. Grasshoppers and beetles are crucial during breeding season for feeding young.
Declined due to habitat loss. Conservation focuses on restoring pine ecosystems and using prescribed burns to maintain habitats.
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 Sparrow is a rare visitor during migration, found in Oklahoma’s marshes and wet meadows. It has a gray nape, orange face and breast, and a white belly with fine streaks. The back is brown with darker streaks. This elusive bird often remains hidden in dense vegetation, making sightings special.
Nesting in coastal marshes and inland wetlands. Nests are just above waterline in dense vegetation. Made of grass, lined with finer materials.
Feeding on insects, crustaceans, and seeds. Foraging in marshes, picking insects from plants and mud.
Wetland loss is a major threat. Conservation aims to protect marsh habitats and monitor populations.
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 common
Breeding across Oklahoma, the Field Sparrow prefers open fields with scattered shrubs. It has a plain face with a pink bill, a rusty cap, and a clear gray breast without streaks. The back is brown with subtle streaking. Known for its distinctive, accelerating song, it is often seen perched on low branches.
Field Sparrows nest on or near the ground in fields and open areas with scattered shrubs. The female builds a cup-shaped nest using grasses and plant fibers, often in low shrubs or grass clumps. She lays three to five eggs, and both parents feed the nestlings, which fledge in about a week.
Their diet consists mainly of seeds from grasses and weeds, foraging on the ground. Insects become an important part of their diet during the breeding season, including beetles, caterpillars, and grasshoppers, providing protein for their young. They may visit feeders offering small seeds.
Field Sparrows have experienced population declines due to loss of suitable habitats from agricultural intensification and urban development. Considered a species of conservation concern, efforts focus on preserving early successional habitats and promoting land management practices that maintain open fields with shrubby areas.
Where to find Sparrows in Oklahoma
If you’re eager to spot sparrows in Oklahoma, you’re in for a treat. These small birds are scattered across the state in various habitats. Start your adventure at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, where open grasslands and rocky areas provide a perfect backdrop. Another great spot is the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, where vast fields echo with the songs of different sparrow species.
For a more wooded experience, head to Lake Thunderbird State Park. Here, the mix of trees and open spaces attracts a variety of sparrows. Lastly, don’t miss Black Mesa State Park in the far western part of the state, home to some less common species.
To find these birds, bring binoculars and a good field guide. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to observe them when they’re most active. Listen carefully for their songs, and be patient—you might spot some rare species if you keep your eyes and ears open.
Conclusion
Overall, the diverse sparrow species in Oklahoma play vital roles in the state’s ecosystems. Understanding their nesting behaviours, diets, and conservation statuses is essential for preserving these birds and their habitats, ensuring they continue to enrich Oklahoma’s natural landscapes for generations to come.
