Field Sparrow (Spizella pusilla)

We frequently heard these sparrows singing, but found them to be shy and generally unapproachable. This individual appears to be carrying nesting material. They breed in scattered populations around Texas with their westernmost outpost here in the Edward's Plateau region. Two races are currently recognized. Nominate S. p. pusilla is found in eastern North America including East Texas. It has a more distinct gray median and back streaking. It also usually shows a brownish ear patch contrasting with the gray face, and has a relatively shorter tail. This individual shows characters of the expected paler, western Great Plains race S. p. arenacea showing a plainer face, less contrasting median stripe and a relatively longer tail.