Fox Sparrow
Passerella iliaca
The Fox Sparrow (Passerella iliaca) is a common new world sparrow found in 7 countries, weighing about 33 g. The fox sparrow is a large New World sparrow.
About the Fox Sparrow
The fox sparrow is a large New World sparrow. It is the only member of the genus Passerella, although some authors split the species into four.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
How to identify it
Adults are among the largest New World sparrows, heavily spotted and streaked underneath. All feature a messy central breast spot though this is less noticeable on the thick billed and slate-colored varieties. Plumage varies markedly from one group to another. Measurements: Length: 15–19 cm (5.9–7.5 in) Wingspan: 26.7–29 cm (10.5–11.4 in) Weight: 26–44 g (0.92–1.55 oz)
What the Fox Sparrow sounds like
Where it lives
Recorded as a rare visitor in Finland.
When to see it
Best months: January, February, March, April, June, October, November, December, with peak activity in April. It is a variable species across most of its range.
Easily confused with
Quick questions
- How do you identify a Fox Sparrow?
- Adults are among the largest New World sparrows, heavily spotted and streaked underneath. Full identification notes are on this page.
- How big is a Fox Sparrow?
- The Fox Sparrow is a small sized bird weighing about 33 g.
- Where can you see a Fox Sparrow?
- The Fox Sparrow occurs in 7 countries, including the United States, Canada, St. Pierre & Miquelon, Mexico and Bermuda.
- What does a Fox Sparrow sound like?
- You can listen to 3 field recordings of the Fox Sparrow on this page, contributed to xeno-canto under open licences.
- What birds look similar to a Fox Sparrow?
- The Fox Sparrow is most easily confused with the Lincoln's Sparrow, the California Towhee and the Golden-crowned Sparrow.
Learn the Fox Sparrow for real
BeakBrain drills you on photos and calls until you can greet this bird by name in the field. Free to play, on any device.
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