Belding’s Savannah Sparrow

Passerculus sandwichensis beldingi

Status: Endangered

If you see a lone sparrow in the marsh or on the beach, rather than flocking, it’s probably a Belding’s. While other Savannah Sparrows are widespread and common, the Belding’s is specially adapted to coastal salt marshes, and can live nowhere else. It’s on the state’s Endangered Species list because so much of its wetland habitat has been destroyed.

Fun Fact:
This feisty little sparrow lives only in coastal salt marshes.

What’s for Lunch:
Insects and spiders, supplemented in winter by the tips of marsh vegetation

Where’s Home:
Amongst the pickleweed in the lagoon