Watercolor portrait of Golden-crowned Sparrow (Zonotrichia atricapilla)

Golden-crowned Sparrow

Zonotrichia atricapilla
Long-distance migrant During the non-breeding season, frequent… Common Descending whistle

Learn to identify the Golden-crowned Sparrow by ear. Master the "Oh–dear…me" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“Oh–dear…me”

What the Golden-crowned Sparrow sounds like

A large, handsome sparrow of the western edge of North America, noted for the gleaming yellow crown bordered by bold black stripes on adults. In winter its plaintive minor-key whistle drifts through brushy thickets and coastal scrub. Migrants form loose flocks with White-crowned and other sparrows, scratching the ground for seeds and insects.

“Oh–dear…me”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:Three (sometimes four) clear, mournful notes falling in pitch; first note usually highest and longest. Often written as “Oh–dear…me”.
Don't confuse with:The White-crowned Sparrow — lacks yellow patch; crown stripes black-and-white rather than black-and-gold.

Where you'll hear it

During the non-breeding season, frequents brushy edges, weedy fields, chaparral, hedgerows, backyards and disturbed lots from coastal Alaska south to Baja California. Breeds in shrubby alpine and sub-alpine tundra, willow thickets, and stunted conifer forest of Alaska and north-western Canada.

Most arrive on wintering grounds September–October and depart March–May. Peak spring passage along Pacific Coast in April. On breeding grounds mid-May–August.

Similar species

White-crowned Sparrow

Lacks yellow patch; crown stripes black-and-white rather than black-and-gold.

White-throated Sparrow (tan-striped form)

Has bright white throat patch bordered with dark whisker stripe.

Immature Golden-crowned Sparrow

Crown dull brown with faint yellow wash, lacking sharp black borders.

Golden-crowned Sparrow song FAQ

What does a Golden-crowned Sparrow sound like?
Three (sometimes four) clear, mournful notes falling in pitch; first note usually highest and longest. Listen for the "Oh–dear…me" phrase.
How do I tell a Golden-crowned Sparrow from a White-crowned Sparrow by sound?
White-crowned Sparrow: Lacks yellow patch; crown stripes black-and-white rather than black-and-gold.; Facial area paler gray; usually slimmer overall..
When is the best time to hear a Golden-crowned Sparrow?
Most arrive on wintering grounds September–October and depart March–May. Peak spring passage along Pacific Coast in April. On breeding grounds mid-May–August.