Source and Additional Information

Animal Diversity Web
 
Ernest Travis, Kari Kirschbaum
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American tree sparrows are migratory. Though they are diurnal during the rest of the year, this species migrates at night.

American tree sparrows are territorial during the breeding season. Males sing to claim territories and are responsible for territory defense, though females also occasionally chase intruders. The inner part of a territory is used the most and mainly early in the day, with activity spreading to the outside of the territory later in the day. American tree sparrows do not actively defend winter territories. During the winter they form foraging flocks in which dominance hierarchies develop.

American tree sparrows move by hopping on the ground and on branches, and by flying. They do not swim or dive, but do bath frequently. They roost solitarily in conifers, thick bushes, haystacks, cornfields, and marshes. In winter, they may shelter communally under the snow. (McNicholl, 1987; Naugler, 1993)

Home Range

We do not have information on home range for this species at this time.

Communication and Perception

Source and Additional Information

Animal Diversity Web
 
Ernest Travis, Kari Kirschbaum
Some rights reserved

American tree sparrows communicate using sounds and physical displays (see Mating Systems section for examples). Only male American tree sparrows sing, though both sexes use calls. The songs of American tree sparrows are composed of high, thin whistles and last 1 to 2 seconds. They are used primarily in territorial defense and to attract mates. Each male sings only one song. Both males and females use calls, which appear to be associated with particular behaviors such as feeding or alarm. Chicks use calls to express hunger, discomfort, and fear beginning at 5, 6, and 8 days old, respectively. (Baumgartner, 1938; Cornell Lab of Ornithology, 2003)