ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Lark Sparrow

Lark Sparrow

Photo by Richard Day/Daybreak Imagery

Lark sparrows are spring and summer residents in Ohio and are only occasionally observed in the winter. The Ohio Division of Wildlife lists the lark sparrow as an endangered species.

Lark Sparrow

Chondestes grammacus

At-a-Glance

• Peak Breeding Activity: May

• Incubation: 11-12 days

• Clutch Size: 3-5 white eggs that are marked with many dark brown and black spots.

• Young Fledge: 9-10 days after hatching

• Typical Foods: insects and seeds

• Ohio Status: Endangered

Description
The lark sparrow is a unique bird that has a few bold features that distinguish it from other sparrows. They have long tails which have white triangles at the corners, alternating brown, white, and black patterns on their heads, and a white breast with a black dot in the center.

Habitat and Habits
This sparrow nests in grassland habitats with scattered shrub layers, disturbed open areas, as well as patches of bare soil. In the Oak Openings area west of Toledo, lark sparrows occupy open grass and shrubby fields along sandy beach ridges. These summer residents normally migrate out of Ohio shortly after their young fledge or leave the nest.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Lark sparrows begin nesting during May. They build an open-cup nest that is low to the ground. The eggs hatch in 11-12 days. Most lark sparrows fledge during June.