Grasshopper Sparrow

Ammodramus savannarum

Named after its song which is very similar to a grasshopper, the Grasshopper Sparrow is often difficult to observe.  Unless singing during the mating season, they prefer to stay out of sight near the ground in grassy areas.  

Habitat: Grasslands and prairies, prefer ably with tall grasses and scattered shrubs.  Will also use hayfields, and occasionally agricultural fields with other crops.  

Diet: Primarily feeds on insects and spiders in the summer, while seeds and waste grain make up most of the diet in the winter (and a portion of the summer diet).  Also will feed on earthworms and snails.

Nesting: June and July

Breeding Map: Breeding Bird Survey map

Song: Insect-like buzzing.  Grasshopper Sparrow Song

Migrations: Summers throughout much of the U.S.  Winters in the southern U.S. and points south.

Similar Species: Henslow's Sparrow, Baird's Sparrow

Status: Has shown severe declines locally.  The Florida sub-species is seriously endangered, as are local populations in the Appalachians.  Still common and widespread in many areas, however.

Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Grasshopper Sparrow

2) Cornell University's "All About Birds - Grasshopper Sparrow"

3) eNature.com: Grasshopper Sparrow

Photo Information: July 16th, 2004 -- Near Richland Wildlife Area on the Fort Pierre National Grasslands -- Terry Sohl

Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or text links below for additional, higher-resolution Grasshopper Sparrow photos.

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Please mail any comments/suggestions/additional links for this page to: Terry L. Sohl

This page was last edited on 02/03/08