Grasshopper Sparrow

Grasshopper Sparrow
Photo Credit: Aron Flanders, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Overview

  • Species Common Name Grasshopper Sparrow
  • Species Scientific Name Ammodramus savannarum perpallidus
  • State Listing Status Sensitive

Ecoregions

Special needs

Grasshopper Sparrows use dry grassland habitat, generally with low to moderate grass height and low percent shrub cover. They have large habitat area requirements.

Limiting factors

Grasshopper Sparrows are uncommon and locally distributed in Oregon. Loss of grasslands due to conversion and shrub/tree encroachment is a key limiting factor. Nesting failure due to timing of land use practices (e.g., mowing, haying, spraying) also impacts this species.

Conservation actions

Maintain or restore grassland habitat. Increase plant diversity to promote greater insect diversity. Maintain high percent native grass cover and <10% shrub cover in patches >20 acres. Delay mowing and other field management until after July 15 at known nesting areas. Control key invasive plants.

Key reference or plan

Status Assessment and Conservation Plan for Grasshopper Sparrow