Passerella iliaca
Range
They breed in summer from Alaska all across Canada to Newfoundland and down into the U.S. on the west coast and Rocky Mountains. They winter in the southern part of their range.
Habitat
They are found in the undergrowth of coniferous and mixed forests. They are also seen in fields and thickets.
Body Traits
They are the largest sparrow. They are rusty brown above with some dark streaks below and have a dark spot on their breast and a rust-colored tail. Males and females look alike.
Habits
They scratch on the ground looking for food.
Diet
They eat seeds, insects and will eat fruits.
Reproduction
The female builds a cup nest of grass and twigs near to the ground. She lays 3-5 light blue-green eggs with brown spots.
Classification
Domain: Eukarya
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Subphylum: Vertebrata
Class: Aves
Order: Passeriformes
Family: Emberizidae
Genus: Passerella
Species: P. iliaca