Song Sparrow look-alikes
Melospiza melodia
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Song Sparrow. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Lincoln's Sparrow
Melospiza lincolnii
Key differences
Lincoln's Sparrow is generally smaller, has finer streaking on the breast and flanks, a buffy wash across the breast, and lacks the prominent central breast spot of the Song Sparrow. Its facial pattern is also more finely streaked and less boldly marked.
Savannah Sparrow
Passerculus sandwichensis
Key differences
Savannah Sparrows typically have a yellowish wash on the lores (area between eye and bill) and a shorter, notched tail. Their streaking is often finer and more uniform, and they lack the strong central breast spot. Their song is a distinctive 'tsit-tsit-tsit-tseee-tsaaay'.
Fox Sparrow
Passerella iliaca
Key differences
Fox Sparrows are significantly larger and chunkier, with much heavier, rufous streaking on the underparts that often coalesce into large blotches. They have a more rufous overall coloration and a distinctive 'double-scratch' foraging behavior, but their size and plumage are quite different.
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