Physical Traits: The Golden-crowned sparrow has a black crown and forehead with a crown center of yellow. In winter it sports winter plumage and the black colors largely fade to brown. Male and females look alike.

Habitat: Preferred habitats include mountain meadow areas and pine forest clearings. Winters are spent near coastal brush. Golden-crowned Sparrow nests can be found in the ground or placed underground.

Recommended Feeder: Ground or platform feeder

Feeder Tips: Place the platform feeder in a protected area that offers the safety of trees or shrubs. The Golden-crowned Sparrow will also be present near other types of feeders, feeding on dropped seeds. To attract sparrows, place a blend of millet and sunflower seeds in a ground feeder.

States and Regions Found: They live in California eight months of the year and spend winters along a narrow strip of the West Coast.