Chipping Sparrow

Chipping Sparrow ~Photography by Caitlyn Sippel

Often referred to as "Chippers", these sparrows are seen across most of North America, and you can often see them in your garden or backyard. In the Fall, they lose their rusty crowns and have duller colours, making it easy to confuse them with other birds they flock with; the Clay-coloured or Brewer's Sparrows. Chipping sparrows can live up to 9 years, have a wingspan that stretches 21 cm and are 14 cm long. They fly in large flocks.

Voice:

Another easy to remember voice, as they like to say their own name, Chipping sparrows often call out with a sharp chip. They sing in a trill of chip notes that resemble an insect-like trill which can vary in quality and duration.

Watch this video to hear the Chipping Sparrow's voice:

Nesting:

Chippers make a neat cup often high above the ground in a shrub or tree. They lay 3 to 5 eggs in 1-2 broods from April to August.

Feeding:

Eats grass seeds and seeds of annuals, as well as some fruits. They also eat insects and other invertebrates while breeding.

Looking up at a Chipping Sparrow with blue sky in the background.

Photography by Caitlyn Sippel