The Fox Sparrow is a
large, chunky bird which only visits South Dakota during migration.
Somewhat shy birds, they strongly prefer thick vegetation, and are most often
seen on the ground as they scratch for food items. There are a great many
color variations depending on geographic area.
Habitat: Prefers brushy areas, primarily
thick forest undergrowth. Can be found in suburban areas, but usually
around well-vegetated areas.
Diet: Primarily feeds on seeds, especially during
migration and the winter. In the summer, also feeds heavily on insects
and spiders. May also occasionally feed on fruits and berries, and
small marine life along the coasts.
Behavior: Primarily feeds on the ground, often
scratching through the leaf litter.
Breeding: Non-breeder in South Dakota. In
breeding range, the Fox Sparrow nest is a cup of grasses, weeds, and other plant
material, built in a shrub or small tree, usually within 10 feet of the ground.
The female usually lays between 3 and 5 eggs, and she alone incubates them.
When the eggs hatch, both parents help to feed the young. The young fledge
in about 10 days.
Migration: Summers throughout Canada, Alaska, and higher elevations of the western
United States. Winters throughout the southeastern United States, along
the U.S. West Coast, the Southwest U.S., and Mexico.
Bird Feeders: Will attend feeders for scattered birdseed and
Conservation Status: Generally stable, although counts in some
regions show possible slight declines in recent decades. Overall, there
are no serious concerns for Fox Sparrow populations, and
the IUCN lists the Fox
Sparrow as a species of "Least concern".
Cornell University's "All About Birds - Fox Sparrow"
eNature.com: Fox Sparrow
Photo Information: November 4th, 2007 - Big
Sioux Recreation Area near Brandon - Terry Sohl
Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or
text links below for additional, higher-resolution Fox Sparrow photos.