Smith's Longspur

16 cm (6") Uncommon. Breeds on Arctic tundra, far northern Canadian meadows. Winter; central United States on prairies, fields, airports.

Male: distinctive black and white head. Deep buff on entire underparts and nape. Brown streaked back. Dark tail has white outer edge.

Female and Non-breeding Male: sparrow-like. Brown streaked back. Buffy, lightly streaked breast. Dark tail has a white outer edge.

Song: sweet warbles ending with "wee-chew" given only on breeding grounds, rapid clicking flight song, dry rattle call.

Videos

Images

Credit: Jerry Oldenettel

Credit: Jerry Oldenettel

Credit: Jason Weckstein

Credit: Jerry Oldenettel