It seemed that wherever I went in the Mojave Desert, these sharp looking birds were present. Part of what made them easy to notice is that they tend to travel in small groups; their frequent high, bell-like calls made me aware of their presence.
Found throughout the southwestern United States and Mexico in arid upland habitats, the Black-throated Sparrow breeds as far north as Washington State. It prefers a habitat of desert hillsides and scrub, canyons and washes – but it is quite adaptable.
Its striking face pattern of neat gray bordered by two strong white stripes and a black triangular throat patch make it easy to identify. Juveniles lack the adult’s black throat and have faint streaking above and below. I have often observed them hopping on the ground, pecking for seeds and insects and making short, low flights between shrubs.
They have the habit of perching in trees and shrubs while giving quiet calls. The Black-throated Sparrow establishes and defends a large territory during nest construction and egg laying season, though once incubation begins, their territory size shrinks and males becomes less responsive to intruders.
The oldest recorded Black-throated Sparrow was a female that was least 6 years old when she was recaptured and re-released during banding operations in Arizona. This is a handsome bird that adds its good looks and interesting song to the desert landscape of the American southwest.