Watercolor portrait of Lark Sparrow (Chondestes grammacus)

Lark Sparrow

Chondestes grammacus
Common Musical Jumble

Learn to identify the Lark Sparrow by ear. Master the "chew chee chee CHEEW wit chi chi" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“chew chee chee CHEEW wit chi chi”

What the Lark Sparrow sounds like

A rich, variable series of clear whistles and trills, often starting with a few low notes and ending with buzzes; delivered from an elevated perch.

How to tell it apart

Listen for: “chew chee chee CHEEW wit chi chi”
Don't confuse with the Vesper Sparrow. Song is sweeter, less mechanical.

Where you'll hear it

Breeds across the Great Plains, interior West, and parts of California and the Midwest. Winters in the southern United States, Mexico, and portions of Central America.

Open grasslands, prairies, pastures, sagebrush flats, and agricultural fields that feature scattered shrubs or fence lines for song perches.

Migratory: arrives on northern breeding grounds from April–May, nests through August, and moves southward September–October. Some southwestern populations are year-round residents.

How to recognize it by sight

The Lark Sparrow is a large, boldly faced sparrow of open country. It walks across bare ground and, when it lifts off, flashes white corners on an otherwise dark tail.

Similar species

Savannah Sparrow

Savannah lacks bold facial chestnut and black pattern

Vesper Sparrow

Has a white eye-ring and chest streaking, not a central spot

Song Sparrow

Heavy breast streaks forming a central spot but head pattern is brown and blurry, not crisp black/chestnut

Lark Sparrow song FAQ

What does a Lark Sparrow sound like?
A rich, variable series of clear whistles and trills, often starting with a few low notes and ending with buzzes; delivered from an elevated perch. Listen for the "chew chee chee CHEEW wit chi chi" phrase.
How do I tell a Lark Sparrow from a Vesper Sparrow by sound?
Vesper Sparrow: Song is sweeter, less mechanical.
When is the best time to hear a Lark Sparrow?
Migratory: arrives on northern breeding grounds from April–May, nests through August, and moves southward September–October. Some southwestern populations are year-round residents.