White-eared Ground Sparrow

The White-eared Ground Sparrow, known scientifically as Melozone leucotis, is a robust American sparrow that graces the foothills of Middle America. This bird, with an average length of 17.5 cm and a weight of 43 g, boasts a distinctive appearance characterized by unstreaked olive-brown upperparts and a head adorned with a black and white pattern.

Identification Tips

Adults of this species can be recognized by their stubby dark-grey bill and the striking black head with a broken white eye ring. White patches are present before and after the eye, while the nape gleams with a green hue and the sides of the neck shine with bright yellow. A black throat and breast patch, edged by a thin rufous-grey line, contrast sharply with the predominantly white underparts, which are tinged with grey on the flanks. Juveniles display yellower underparts and a more subdued head pattern.

Habitat

The White-eared Ground Sparrow favors the undergrowth and thickets found in ravines, forest edges, and semi-open woodlands, including secondary growth and large gardens. It thrives at altitudes ranging from 500 to 2,000 meters.

Distribution

This species is a local resident in southern Mexico, Guatemala, and extends down to northern Costa Rica.

Behaviour

Typically encountered in pairs, the White-eared Ground Sparrow is a shy bird, often best observed at dawn or dusk. It is more readily seen than its elusive relative, Prevost's Ground Sparrow.

Song & Calls

The call of this bird is a thin "tsip," while the male's song is an explosive whistled "spit-CHUR see-see-see."

Breeding

The female constructs a substantial nest on the ground or slightly elevated, using stems, twigs, and other plant materials. It is well-concealed among banana plants or orchids. She lays two brown-blotched white eggs and incubates them for 12-14 days, with the male assisting in feeding the chicks.

Similar Species

Subspecies M. l. nigrior from North Nicaragua has a broader black breast spot compared to the nominate form in Costa Rica. The northernmost subspecies, M. l. occipitalis, is distinguished by a grey crown stripe, a prominent yellow supercilium, and a very small breast spot.

Diet and Feeding

The White-eared Ground Sparrow forages on the ground for seeds, fallen berries, insects, and spiders.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the White-eared Ground Sparrow as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without significant immediate threats to its survival.