Sparrows- ORDER: Passeriformes
- FAMILY: Passerellidae
Basic Description
At first glance, the Rufous-winged Sparrow resembles the widespread Chipping Sparrow, although you won't see the former outside of the Sonoran Desert’s thornbush and bunchgrass habitats. Note the gray face, pale bill, and rusty crown, eyeline, and shoulder patch. Males sing most consistently at the start of the summer monsoon, which kicks off the breeding season. Rufous-winged Sparrows are so tied to rainfall for breeding that if winter rains are heavy, they may nest again the following spring.
More ID InfoFind This Bird
Search for Rufous-winged Sparrows by walking through remote desert areas with mesquite and scattered bunchgrass and listening for their song. During the breeding season, males sing regularly, even in the heat of the day. In the nonbreeding seasons, listen carefully for their subtle call notes to lead you to this bird. Watch carefully for rattlesnakes in this habitat.
Other Names
- Chingolo Alirrufo (Spanish)
- Bruant à épaulettes (French)