Found in shrubby expanses of sagebrush. Perches up conspicuously when singing; otherwise stays low and hidden. Frequently runs on the ground often with tail cocked up. Brown sparrow with gray head; very similar to Bell's Sparrow and once considered the same species. Paler than Bell's Sparrow with slightly different face pattern. Look for relatively pale gray head with white eyering, white spot in front of eye, and white mustache bordered by thin dark line. Flanks brownish with diffuse streaking; belly and breast white. In winter, can be found together with Bell's Sparrow. Song is a jumble of mechanical, musical notes, slower than Bell's Sparrow.