Where’s Wildlife · Bird Field Guide
Melospiza lincolnii
Pronounced (approx.): mel-oh-SPY-zuh lin-KOL-nee-eye
A shy sparrow with crisp fine streaks across a buff-colored breast band and a clean white belly. [1]
Select the main image to browse all 5 photographs.
NATIVE TO NORTH AMERICA
Watch quietly near brush piles, low thickets, and damp edges. Birds may emerge briefly onto an open patch of ground or a low branch. [1]
Use the range map for seasonal context and the observation map to explore reported sightings near you.
Listen for rhythm and tone, then compare what you hear with the bird’s appearance and habitat.
Song Sparrows generally have heavier streaking and a bolder face. Swamp Sparrows lack the same crisp, finely streaked buff breast band. [1]
Photographs © Brian Woolman / Where’s Wildlife. Select any image to open the gallery.
Showing 5 of 5 photographs.
Lincoln’s Sparrows feed low in dense cover, gathering seeds and small animals. They nest on the ground in concealed vegetation, often in damp northern or montane habitat, and move through a wider range of thickets during migration. [2]
Explore reported observations and photographs on iNaturalist. Zoom to your area and use date filters to investigate seasonal sightings.
Reported sightings are not a complete range map. A lack of records does not necessarily mean the species is absent.
Choose a photograph and name three clues you can see. Compare another view to learn how angle, age, season, and lighting change the bird’s appearance.