Sparrows of North Dakota
Unstreaked Sparrows
11. Brewer's Sparrow
- Spizella breweri
- Length-5 1/2 inches
- BREEDING SPECIES
Small sparrow similar in appearance to clay-colored sparrow but lacks the pale
central head stripe. Instead has a brown head with fine black streaks. Has a
distinct white eye ring and grayish-white stripe above the eye. Ear patches
are light brown with darker edges. Has a thin, dark stripe running down the
throat area on both sides. Breast and belly are grayish-white. Sexes similar.
Is common in its small nesting location within the southwestern corner of the
state. Prefers black sagebrush habitat which is found primarily in Bowman and
Slope counties. Feeds on the ground on beetles, caterpillars, leafhoppers and
weevils. Nests within sage brush clumps or other shrubs within four feet of
the ground.
Previous Sparrow -- American Tree Sparrow (
Spizella
arborea)
Return to Sparrow List
Next Sparrow -- Vesper Sparrow (
Pooecetes gramineus)
