Species · GBIF taxon 5231140
White-throated Sparrow
Zonotrichia albicollisAlso known as Peabody Bird, Canada Sparrow
White-throated Sparrows are famous for their sweet, whistling song that echoes through northern forests. They exhibit a fascinating genetic polymorphism, occurring in either white-striped or tan-striped color morphs that dictate their mating behavior and social dominance. During winter, they form busy foraging flocks on the forest floor, vigorously scratching leaf litter with both feet to uncover hidden seeds and insects.
MigratorySongbirdForest Dweller
Licensed reference(c) Judy Gallagher, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Insects
- Seeds
- Berries
Predators
- Domestic Cats
- Sharp-shinned Hawks
- Snakes
ThreatsHabitat loss, window collisions, and outdoor cat predation
HabitatsConiferous and mixed forests, brushy fields, suburban gardens
Life span5 to 9 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyPasserellidae
- SpeciesZonotrichia albicollis
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Listen for the Song: Listen for their clear, high whistle, often translated as 'Oh sweet Canada, Canada, Canada'.
- Provide Ground Feeders: Attract them to your yard by scattering millet or sunflower seeds directly on the ground.
- Look for the Morphs: Try to identify both the white-striped and tan-striped color variations in the same flock.
Frequent Companion (c) Becky Matsubara, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Close Relative (c) Mike Baird, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Close Relative (c) Kevin Krebs, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Close Relative
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