Seaside Sparrow

The Seaside Sparrow (Ammospiza maritima) is a distinctive bird that thrives in the coastal marshes of the eastern United States. The Seaside Sparrow is a medium-sized sparrow known for its brownish upperparts and distinctive facial markings.

Key Characteristics:

• Size: Approximately 13-15 cm (5.1-5.9 inches) in length
• Wingspan: Around 18-21 cm (7.1-8.3 inches)
• Weight: 18-25 grams (0.63-0.88 ounces)
• Color: Brownish upperparts with gray on the crown and nape. The breast is grayish-buff with dark streaks, a dark face with gray cheeks, a white throat, and a short, pointed tail. A small yellow streak is visible just above the eye.

Comparison with Similar Species:

Taxonomy

The Seaside Sparrow belongs to the family Passerellidae and the order Passeriformes. It was originally described by Alexander Wilson in 1811. The genus name Ammospiza refers to its habitat, with “ammo” meaning sand and “spiza” meaning finch or sparrow.

Taxonomic Classification:

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Aves
• Order: Passeriformes
• Family: Passerellidae
• Genus: Ammospiza
• Species: A. maritima

Distribution and Range

Seaside Sparrows are primarily found in coastal marshes along the eastern United States, from Maine to Texas. They are non-migratory in most of their range, but some northern populations move southward during the winter.

Table: Distribution by Region

Population

The Seaside Sparrow is currently listed as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN, although certain populations face threats from habitat loss and environmental changes. The estimated global population is around 300,000 individuals.

Habitat

Seaside Sparrows are highly specialized for life in salt marshes and brackish wetlands. These habitats provide essential cover and food resources for breeding and foraging. The birds are often found in areas with dense Spartina grass and other salt-tolerant vegetation.

Preferred Habitat Characteristics:

• Salt marshes with dense Spartina grass
• Brackish wetlands with mixed vegetation
• Areas with minimal woody vegetation
• Regions with adequate ground cover for nesting

Behavior

Vocalizations

The Seaside Sparrow’s song is a series of sharp, buzzing notes, often described as “tsip-tsip-tseeee.” These vocalizations are used primarily by males to establish territory and attract mates during the breeding season.

Social Structure

Seaside Sparrows are generally solitary or found in small groups, especially during the breeding season. They are territorial and will defend their nesting sites aggressively.

Feeding

Seaside Sparrows have a varied diet that includes insects, crustaceans, and seeds. Their feeding habits shift seasonally, with a greater reliance on insects and crustaceans during the breeding season and seeds during the winter.

Table: Diet Composition

Breeding

The breeding season for Seaside Sparrows typically begins in late spring and extends through early summer. Males establish territories and attract females with their distinctive songs and displays. Nests are built in the dense grass of salt marshes, constructed from grass stems and other plant materials.

Breeding Facts

• Clutch Size: 3-4 eggs
• Incubation Period: 12-14 days
• Fledging Period: 10-12 days

Threats

Despite their specialized habitat, Seaside Sparrows face several threats, primarily due to habitat loss and degradation. Coastal development, sea-level rise, and climate change pose significant risks to their marshland habitats. Additionally, pollution and pesticide use can reduce the availability of their prey, impacting their food resources.

Migration

While most Seaside Sparrows are non-migratory, some northern populations move southward during the winter. Migration typically occurs in October and November for the southward journey and March and April for the northward journey.

Migration Patterns

Conservation

Conservation efforts for Seaside Sparrows focus on preserving and restoring salt marsh habitats. Initiatives such as the establishment of protected areas and habitat restoration projects have been beneficial in providing suitable environments for these birds. Monitoring programs and research are also essential to understand population trends and inform conservation strategies.

Key Conservation Actions:

• Preservation of salt marshes and brackish wetlands
• Restoration of degraded habitats
• Research and monitoring of population trends
• Public awareness and education campaigns

Lifespan

A typical Seaside Sparrow lifespan is around 8 to 9 years. The oldest known individual was at least 10 years old when recaptured and re-released during banding operations in South Carolina.

Lifespan Comparison with Similar Species:

Conclusion

The Seaside Sparrow is a resilient and specialized species that plays a vital role in the coastal marsh ecosystems of the eastern United States. Understanding its behavior, feeding habits, and breeding patterns is essential for its conservation. Efforts to preserve and restore salt marsh habitats will be crucial in ensuring the survival of this species.

For bird enthusiasts and conservationists, the Seaside Sparrow represents both a challenge and an opportunity. By supporting conservation initiatives and promoting awareness, we can help protect this remarkable bird and its habitat for future generations to enjoy.