© John Missing
© Eric Antonio Martinez
© Miguel Aguilar @birdnomad
© Patrick Van Thull

Rusty-crowned Ground-Sparrow Melozone kieneri

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Identification

POWERED BY MERLIN

Attractive, rather skulking large sparrow of foothills, endemic to west Mexico. Favors brushy understory of tropical woodlands, shade-coffee plantations, and brushy hedges in farmland. Mostly stays well hidden on or near the ground, but can feed in the open beside quiet roads and trails, especially in early mornings; usually in pairs. Note the rusty cap (often raised when excited), white spectacles, and extensive white bib with a dark central spot.

POWERED BY MERLIN