Ammodramus maritimus
adult
The Seaside Sparrow has a relatively long, pointed bill and shows regional variation in its plumage. Three groups are recognized and the sexes are similar in any given location. “Atlantic Coast” adults have gray-brown upperparts with rufous on the wings. On the head, a dark malar stripe separates the white throat from the faintly yellow “mustache.” There is a yellow supercilium in front of the eye. The underparts are dull gray with reddish-brown spots. “Gulf Coast” adults are similar but overall more intensely washed yellow-buff, and with bolder dark markings on the head, including a complete supercilium, and more intense streaks on the back and breast. “Cape Sable” (Florida) adults have more evenly brown upperparts and wings, and whitish underparts with dark brown streaks. Juveniles are similar to their respective regional adults but warmer buff overall.
The Seaside Sparrow has specialized habitat requirements and is present year-round in saltmarshes up and down North America’s Atlantic and Gulf coasts. As sparrows go, it is fairly bold and easy to see. It is threatened by habitat loss and degradation.
adult
FACT FILE
LENGTH 6 in (15 cm)
FOOD Mainly seeds, with invertebrates in spring and summer
HABITAT Grassy saltmarshes
STATUS Very locally common resident
VOICE Song is a wheezy tsup-bree-erz. Call is a soft tsup
