The stocky Fox Sparrow is one of the largest members of the sparrow family, closer to the size of a Blue Grosbeak than other sparrow species. Despite its size, it’s rather shy and retiring, and prefers to stay under cover in dense vegetation, where it may be detected as it rustles through the leaves in search of food, or by its melodious song.
Although named for its “foxy” reddish-orange color, only certain Fox Sparrows sport this eponymous plumage. Individuals in other parts of its wide range have only hints of the warm tones that characterize its eastern relatives.
Like the Hermit Thrush and Song Sparrow, the Fox Sparrow shows significant variation across its geographic range. Just how changeable is this widespread sparrow’s appearance?
Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/fox-sparrow