The Savannah Sparrow is arriving to its California summer digs in large numbers. The bird was discovered in Savannah, Georgia — hence the name — but the passerine is found all over the US. In the winter the songbird lives in the south and in the summer can be found as far north as Barrow, Alaska.

Because they breed on wide open ranges with low vegetation, Savannah Sparrows are particularly dependent on agricultural land. They are considered a threatened species and are one of many that Audubon California works to protect.

Our conservationists work with farmers in the San Joaquin Valley, including folks who grow alfalfa — a favorite crop of this Sparrow. Audubon California's Landowner Stewardship Program partners with USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service to fund restoration work on private lands. Audubon California eradicate invasive weeds and in their stead plant native riparians through methods perfected at our Bobcat Ranch. Birds aren't the only critters that benefit from Audubon's work in alfalfa fields, the crop supports some of the greatest biodiversity among row crops.

(Elaine R. Wilson/NaturePicsOnline)