Rufous-collared Sparrow

Zonotrichia capensis

Order: Passeriformes

Family: Passerellidae

Genus: Zonotrichia

The Rufous-collared sparrow is a small, boldly marked songbird recognized by its distinctive rufous (reddish-brown) collar, white throat, and grey head with black stripes. Adults typically measure 13 to 16 centimetres in length and weigh around 20 to 25 grams. Both sexes appear similar, with subtle variation in shade depending on region and elevation.

Well-known for its cheerful, whistled song, this sparrow is highly adaptable and commonly seen in open areas, farmlands, forest edges, urban parks, and gardens throughout its wide range. It is one of the most familiar and widespread birds in Latin America.

Conservation Status: IUCN

Distribution

Occurs from southern Mexico through Central America, all the way to the southern tip of South America, including countries like Argentina, Chile, Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and Ecuador. Found from sea level to high-elevation Andean environments above 4,000 metres.

Habitat

Inhabits a broad range of open or semi-open habitats, including:

Grasslands and pastures
Shrubby areas and forest edges
Agricultural fields
City parks and gardens
High-altitude páramo and montane scrub

Its versatility in habitat choice is one reason for its widespread distribution.

Diet

Omnivorous. Feeds on a mix of seeds, small fruits, insects, and invertebrates, depending on availability. Forages mostly on the ground, often seen hopping or scratching through leaf litter in search of food.

Reproduction

Breeding varies by region but often coincides with the rainy season. Nests are cup-shaped and made from grass, twigs, and plant fibres, placed low in shrubs, grass, or even urban structures. The female lays 2 to 3 eggs, which she incubates for about 12–14 days. Both parents may feed the young after hatching.

This species is known to breed multiple times per year in favourable conditions.

Adaptation

Wide altitude tolerance: Thrives from sea level to over 4,000 metres
Vocal learning: Songs vary by region, and individuals can mimic or adapt to local dialects
Urban adaptability: Thrives in human-modified landscapes
Generalist diet supports survival in varied environments

Threats to Survival

Localized pesticide exposure in agricultural areas
Urban hazards such as window collisions or introduced predators
Habitat change can alter song-learning opportunities and territorial spacing, though the species is generally resilient