Five-striped Sparrow

The Five-striped Sparrow, known scientifically as Amphispizopsis quinquestriata, is a medium-sized sparrow and the sole representative of its genus. It was previously grouped with the Black-throated Sparrow in the genus Amphispiza.

Identification Tips

This passerine bird is distinguished by its unique pattern of stripes, which gives it its common name. It has a striking appearance that sets it apart from other sparrows.

Habitat

The Five-striped Sparrow has a preference for steep, brushy hillsides within canyon regions. This specific habitat choice is crucial for its survival and breeding.

Distribution

The Five-striped Sparrow can be found along the eastern Gulf of California and the Pacific region of mainland western Mexico. Its breeding range reaches into the southern tip of Arizona, the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range, and the Madrean sky islands of southeastern Arizona, extreme southwestern New Mexico, and northern Sonora. It was first recorded breeding in the United States in the 1950s and is considered a rare breeding bird in the region.

Behaviour

This species is known to be a regular host for cowbird nest parasites, which lay their eggs in the nests of the Five-striped Sparrow.

Feeding

The Five-striped Sparrow often forages on the ground, searching for small seeds and insects to consume. During the summer months, its diet shifts more towards insects, including caterpillars, which are abundant during this season.

Conservation status

The Five-striped Sparrow is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This indicates that, at present, the species does not face an immediate threat of extinction in the wild.