Field Marks: 7 in. One of the most variable North American songbirds, and one our largest sparrows. Typically found in dense cover in thickets, forest edges, and second growth. Adults rust-brown above, brightest on rump and tail, with gray eyebrow, collar, and back streaks; whitish below with small rusty "arrowheads" forming heavy streaks and breast spot. Immatures resemble adults. Song reminiscent of Song Sparrow's, but richer and less buzzy; usually begins with sweet warbled notes, ends with a trill or burry phrase.
Range: Breeds from n. Alaska east to Newfoundland and south to s. California, Nevada, and Colorado. Winters from s. British Columbia south to s. California, and from s. Kansas east to New Jersey and south to Gulf Coast.