Watercolor portrait of Grasshopper Sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum)

Grasshopper Sparrow

Ammodramus savannarum
Breeds across southern Canada, the north… Native and restored prairies, hay fields… Uncommon Primary ‘Grasshopper’ Song

Learn to identify the Grasshopper Sparrow by ear. Master the "tik-tik-zzzzzz" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“tik-tik-zzzzzz”

What the Grasshopper Sparrow sounds like

A stub–tailed, flat–headed sparrow of open grasslands, the Grasshopper Sparrow is named for its high-pitched, insect-like song. Most often detected by ear rather than sight, it keeps low in dense grass and flushes only at the last moment, flying with a short, bounding flight before dropping back into cover.

“tik-tik-zzzzzz”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:Two thin introductory chips followed by an extended, insect-like buzz lasting about one second, delivered from a low perch or in fluttering display flight. Often written as “tik-tik-zzzzzz”.
Don't confuse with:The Savannah Sparrow — longer tail

Lessons featuring the Grasshopper Sparrow

Ready to test your ear? Practice identifying the Grasshopper Sparrow's sounds in this interactive in-app lesson.

Sparrow Sorting Hat lesson habitat
Sparrow Sorting Hat
Tier 7 · Warblers & Sparrows Deep
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Where you'll hear it

Native and restored prairies, hay fields, pastures, fallow fields, airport grasslands, and other expanses of short to medium-height grasses with scattered forbs and bare ground.

Arrives on breeding grounds from late April to early May; males establish territories immediately and sing through July. Most depart by late September. Migrates mostly at night.

Similar species

Savannah Sparrow

Longer tail

Henslow’s Sparrow

Broader olive-tinged head stripes

LeConte’s Sparrow

More vividly orange face and nape

Grasshopper Sparrow song FAQ

What does a Grasshopper Sparrow sound like?
Two thin introductory chips followed by an extended, insect-like buzz lasting about one second, delivered from a low perch or in fluttering display flight. Listen for the "tik-tik-zzzzzz" phrase.
How do I tell a Grasshopper Sparrow from a Savannah Sparrow by sound?
Savannah Sparrow: Longer tail; Distinct breast streaking and central breast spot; Yellowish eyebrow instead of orange-buff lores.
When is the best time to hear a Grasshopper Sparrow?
Arrives on breeding grounds from late April to early May; males establish territories immediately and sing through July. Most depart by late September. Migrates mostly at night.