Baird's Sparrow

Ammodramus bairdii

Baird's Sparrows only inhabit a small portion of their former range, due to their strong preference for native prairie for nesting.  As with other closely-related species, they are often difficult to observe, as they prefer to run along the ground rather than flush.  Baird's Sparrows have beautiful melodic songs compared to their close relatives such as the Grasshopper Sparrow.

Habitat: Breeds in native prairies of tall grasses and scattered weeds and brush.  Will occasionally nest in wheat fields.  Found in agricultural fields, grasslands, and prairies during migration.

Diet: Primarily feeds on insects and spiders in the summer, along with seeds.  Winter diet is primarily seeds of weeds and grasses.

Behavior: Usually stays on the ground, foraging alone.  They are only rarely found in the open, primarily only males when singing during the breeding season.

Nesting: June and July

Breeding Map: Breeding Bird Survey map

Song: A clear high-pitched jumble.  The call is a high-pitched but quiet tweep.

Migration: Summers locally in North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, and adjacent portions of Canada.  Winters in the extreme southwestern U.S. and southward.

Similar Species: Grasshopper Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow

Conservation Status: Has shown a great decline in numbers and range since the 1800's due to habitat loss.

Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Baird's Sparrow

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

3) eNature.com: Baird's Sparrow

Photo Information: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Photo