This plump, boldly marked sparrow is named for its clearly demarcated white throat. Two different color morphs occur, with the most obvious difference between them being the markings on the crown; alternating stripes of black and white, or tan and brown. Both color morphs show yellow lores, although this mark is more apparent on white-striped individuals than on tan-striped birds. The back is chestnut with black streaks. Wing feathers are rufous-brown with buff edges, and the wings show two thin white wing bars. The face and breast are gray, fading to white on the belly. The flanks often show faint brownish streaking. The bill is grayish. Basic and alternate plumages are similar, but basic plumaged birds may show less contrast in the crown striping.

Length: 16 (cm) Wingspan: 22 (cm)

Voice:

Song is a series of clear high whistles, often described as "Old Sam Peabody Peabody Peabody."

Habitat:

Openings and edge habitat within mixed forests.

Behavior:

Feeding:

This sparrow is often found scratching on the ground close to heavy cover, seldom venturing out in the open. It feeds mostly on insects in summer, switching to small seeds in winter, when it is a common visitor at feeding stations.