New World Sparrows
Birds in the Emberizidae family are characterized by their small, cone-shaped beaks and small to medium size. They are found worldwide and can be found in nearly any habitat. In 2017, New World sparrows were re-categorized to the Passerellidae family, but there is much crossover between the two families. Birds in this family eat seeds, usually exclusively. There are over 300 species in the Emberizidae family worldwide.
Included below are the Dark-eyed Junco and the Fox Sparrow.
Dark-eyed Junco
Junco hyemalis
“Plate 13.” John James Audubon (1785-1851). Birds of America. Credit: National Audubon Society.
Habitat: Conifer and mixed woods. In winter, open woods, undergrowth, roadsides, brush.
Preferred Food: Mostly seeds and insects. Also eats some berries. Young are fed mostly insects.
Fun Fact: The Dark-eyed Junco is one of the most common birds in North America and can be found all across the continent, but they only appear in the eastern and southern United States and Mexico during winter as they prefer colder weather.
Dark-eyed Junco Range Map
Fox Sparrow
Passerella iliaca
“Plate 108.” John James Audubon (1785-1851). Birds of America. Credit: National Audubon Society.
Habitat: Wooded areas, undergrowth, brush
Preferred Food: Mostly seeds and insects.
Fun Fact: Female Fox Sparrows build nests with impressive speed - one was observed starting a nest at sunrise and finishing it before sunset!
