Don’t Forget Native Sparrows at Your Feeder

Feed Native Sparrows in Your Backyard

Most of the time when I mention sparrows, birders think mostly about the non-native house sparrows and the harm that they are doing to some of our native birds. But it’s important to remember some of the other amazing types of sparrows that will visit a feeder. One simple way to attract many of our native sparrows is to put out a special sparrow feeder or start a seed pile in your yard.

The majority of these species prefer to feed on the ground, so they are unlikely to come to more traditional hanging feeders. By just tossing some seed out in your yard, you just might get to see some new and exciting sparrows!

How to Choose a Sparrow Bird Feeder

Courtesy Ginger Stegeman

If you don’t want to have seed all over the ground, you can use a simple tray feeder with legs that sits close to the ground. The sparrows will still feel comfortable with the low tray and you can avoid the mess of seed everywhere.

Native Sparrows That Visit Feeders

Here are some of my favorite native birds that will come to visit a ground sparrow feeder or seed pile.

American Tree Sparrow

Courtesy Janet Zimmerman

American tree sparrows are very common visitors at seed piles below feeders throughout much of the northern two-thirds of the United States and all of Canada during the winter months.

Discover fascinating sparrow facts you should know.

White-Throated Sparrow

Courtesy Adam Wilson

White-throated sparrows are another common visitor at ground bird feeders and seed piles.

Learn how to identify a Lincoln’s sparrow.

White-Crowned Sparrow

Courtesy Joan Sparks

Depending on season and location, sometime large flocks of white-crowned sparrows can be found at seed piles.

Fox Sparrow

Courtesy Brian Herrmann

Fox sparrows are slightly less common visitors at seed piles. This photo was taken in the Eastern U.S. but if you live out West, your fox sparrows might look a little different!

Next, learn how to attract juncos to your backyard.