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Baird's Sparrow

Centronyx bairdii

Length: 5.5 inches
Wingspan: 8.5 inches
Seasonality: Summer / Migrant
ID Keys: Mustard-yellow tinge on head, short-tailed, dark streaks on chest
Baird's Sparrow - Centronyx 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

Interactive eBird Map

Further Information