What feeding habit do White-crowned Sparrows exhibit when visiting bird feeders, distinct from clinging birds?
They often wait for other birds to dislodge seeds onto the ground before descending to eat
The White-crowned Sparrow's preference for ground feeding dictates its approach to artificial food sources like bird feeders. Unlike species that readily cling to the side slots of hopper feeders, these sparrows are generally hesitant to feed in elevated or exposed positions. Their typical behavior involves waiting nearby, often exhibiting a degree of shyness, until seeds are scattered onto the ground—either accidentally knocked loose by more active species or intentionally spilled near the base. Only after the preferred feeding substrate (the ground) is available do they descend to consume the fallen nourishment, such as cracked sunflower chips or spilled millet. This preference is further demonstrated by their tendency to perch on the bottom tray rather than using the specialized clinging mechanisms higher up.
