Green Nature

White-crowned Sparrow

white-crowned sparrow


There are a five different White-crowned Sparrows (Zonotrichia leucophrys) in the United States, with slight geographical differences in their appearance.

All the geographical variants share the characteristic white feathers on the crown. Only the White-throated Sparrow shares this characteristic.

Their orange bill and pale, non-striped breast are also identifying field marks.

Some regions of the United States offer perfect habitat for year long residents. Many White-crowned sparrows breed in northern latitudes, including Alaska and Canada.

© 2005 Patricia A. Michaels