Golden-crowned Sparrow

Overview

Golden-crowned Sparrow: Large sparrow, brown-streaked upperparts and plain gray breast. Yellow crown is bordered by a wide black cap; cheek and collar are black. Bill is gray. Wings are brown with two white bars. Short flights, alternates rapid wing beats with brief periods of wings pulled to sides.

Range and Habitat

Golden-crowned Sparrow: Breeds from western Alaska south to northwestern Washington. Spends winters from Kodiak Island and coastal Alaska south to Baja California. Preferred habitats include alpine meadows and coniferous forest clearings; winters in coastal brushlands and chaparral.

INTERESTING FACTS

Golden-crowned Sparrownests are usually dug into the ground or placed in a depression so their rims are even with the ground.
Each bird has its own feeding spot at the bird feeder. Even when there are no other birds around, it uses its spot exclusively.
A group of Golden-crowned Sparrows are collectively known as a "reign" of sparrows.

The Golden-crowned Sparrow is a medium-sized sparrow that breeds and nests in North America. This species breeds in northern and western Canada and Alaska. During colder months, this bird is migratory. These northern populations fly south to Vancouver Island in Canada and throughout the west coast of the United States. Nesting areas of the Golden-crowned Sparrow are shrublands above the treeline or localized coastal areas. They typically lay 3 to 5 eggs, and are known for a distinctive song that sounds like “oh dear me” or “I’m so weary”. Due to maintained or increasing populations of the Golden-crowned Sparrow, its current conservation rating is Least Concern.