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Lincoln's Sparrow
The Lincoln's Sparrow (*Melospiza lincolnii*) is a small, secretive songbird found across North America. It is known for its skulking behavior, often remaining hidden in dense vegetation, making it more often heard than seen. This species plays an important ecological role in controlling insect populations and dispersing seeds. While not as widely recognized as some other sparrows, the Lincoln's Sparrow holds a subtle beauty and contributes to the biodiversity of its habitats. It is named after Thomas Lincoln, a friend of the famed ornithologist John James Audubon.
13-15 cm
Length
18-19 cm
Wingspan
Least Concern
Conservation Status
Distribution
Breeds across Canada, Alaska, and parts of the northern United States. Winters in the southern United States, Mexico, and Central America. Some populations are resident in the mountains of the western US.
Lifespan
Up to 8 years and 11 months in the wild (based on banding records). Average lifespan is likely shorter.
Lincoln's Sparrow's Habitat
Habitat Types
Bogs, Wet meadows, Shrubby thickets, Riparian areas, Forest edges
Climate Zones
Boreal, Temperate, Subalpine
Adaptations
Their preference for dense vegetation provides camouflage and protection from predators. Their relatively long legs are adapted for moving through dense undergrowth.
Variations
Three subspecies are generally recognized: *M. l. lincolnii*, *M. l. alticola*, and *M. l. gracilis*. These differ slightly in plumage and geographic distribution.
Appearance
Breeding Plumage
Breeding plumage is generally brighter and more defined, while non-breeding plumage is slightly duller.
Seasonal Feather Changes
Subtle changes; plumage may become worn and faded by late summer.
Sex Based Plumage Differences
Males and females have very similar plumage.
Notable Features
Buffy breast band with fine dark streaks, Grayish-brown upperparts with darker streaks, Buffy malar stripe (below the cheek), White belly, Relatively long tail for a sparrow
Diet and Feeding
Primary Foods
Insects, Spiders, Seeds, Small fruits
Foraging Behavior
Primarily forages on the ground, often scratching and probing among leaf litter and low vegetation. May also glean insects from foliage.
Specializations
No specific morphological specializations, but their behavior is adapted for foraging in dense undergrowth.
Seasonal Diet Variations
Diet shifts seasonally; insects and spiders are more important during the breeding season, while seeds and fruits become more prominent in winter.
Behavior
Social Structure
Generally solitary or in pairs during the breeding season. May form small flocks during migration and winter.
Communication
Complex song consisting of trills and buzzes, Sharp 'chip' call notes, Soft 'seet' calls
Migration
Migrates at night. Follows broad-front migration routes, often along waterways and coastlines.
Territorial or Group Behaviors
Males defend breeding territories through song and chasing. Territories are relatively small due to the dense habitat.
Conservation
Threats
Habitat loss and degradation (wetlands and grasslands), Pesticide use, Climate change (affecting breeding habitat)
Protection Programs
Wetland conservation initiatives, Migratory Bird Treaty Act protection
Local National Laws
Protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the US and Canada.
Population Trend
Stable or slightly declining in some areas.
Population Estimates
Global population estimated at 19 million (Partners in Flight).
Interesting Facts
The Lincoln's Sparrow was named after Thomas Lincoln, a friend of John James Audubon.
Lincoln accompanied Audubon on an expedition to Labrador in 1833, where he collected the first specimen of this species.
This species is known for its secretive behavior.
It often remains hidden in dense vegetation, making it difficult to observe.
Lincoln's sparrows are ground nesters.
They construct well-hidden nests directly on the ground, or very close to it.
Faqs about Lincoln's Sparrow
How can I identify a Lincoln's Sparrow?
Look for a small sparrow with a buffy breast band with fine streaks, a gray face, and a relatively long tail. Listen for its distinctive song.
Where can I find Lincoln's Sparrows?
Look for them in wet meadows, bogs, and shrubby thickets during the breeding season. During migration and winter, they may be found in a wider range of habitats, including grasslands and weedy fields.
Are Lincoln's Sparrows endangered?
No, they are currently listed as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN.
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