American Tree Sparrows in Washington
When American tree sparrows are present in Washington, when they nest, which native Washington plants feed them, and how to host them in a USDA 4a–9a yard.
- Status in Washington
- Winter visitor
- Nesting window
- Does not typically nest here
- Hardiness zones
- USDA 4a–9a
When to expect American tree sparrows in Washington
In Washington, American tree sparrows are winter visitors rather than breeders. Mild, wet winters on the Puget Sound; cold winters in the east. While here they rely on grass and weed seeds.
Marine west-coast climate west of the Cascades, semi-arid shrub-steppe to the east.
Native Washington plants that attract American tree sparrows
Of the regional native plants we track for Washington, these 8 provide food or cover American tree sparrows use:
Tubular flowers for hummingbirds and seed heads for finches.
Prolific seed heads for finches and sparrows.
Annual native sunflower — the original feeder seed.
Native bunchgrass; winter seed and ground cover for sparrows and juncos.
Insect-rich in fall and seed in winter.
Catkin seed feeds redpolls and siskins all winter.
Nectar-rich in summer, seed for finches in fall.
Late-season bloom supports insects; seed for sparrows.
Feeding American tree sparrows through the Washington year
A winter-only visitor to most of the U.S.; forages in weedy fields and under feeders.
- Best foods: Millet, Hulled sunflower.
- In Washington's winter: Mild, wet winters on the Puget Sound; cold winters in the east.
Full diet breakdown for American tree sparrows · Best feeder for American tree sparrows
Frequently asked
Are American tree sparrows in Washington year-round?
No. American Tree Sparrows are winter visitors in Washington and do not typically nest there.
What native plants attract American tree sparrows in Washington?
Wild bergamot, Black-eyed Susan, Common sunflower, Little bluestem, Tall goldenrod, Paper birch, Rocky Mountain bee plant, Rabbitbrush are native plants in Washington that provide food or cover for American tree sparrows.
American Tree Sparrows in other regions
Other backyard birds in Washington
Sources
- American Tree Sparrow — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- American Tree Sparrow life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- American Tree Sparrow — Audubon Guide to North American Birds
- eBird region overview and bar charts — Washington
- USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023)
- Audubon Native Plants Database
Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.