However, the hermit thrush has a thin bill, lacks streaks on its back and has spots rather than streaks on its breast. The other common winter sparrow in our region is an inhabitant of more open areas. Savannah sparrows are generally found in pastures or meadows or in cultivated fields. They are skulkers and often run along the ground rather than flush. Because of the heavily streaked breast, savannahs may suggest the more common song sparrow.
Savannahs are smaller, with shorter, notched tails.
There is usually a buff colored eyebrow stripe and a whitish crown stripe. The call is a thin chip. When flushed, savannah sparrows generally have a direct flight pattern. Song sparrows have an undulating flight and usually pump thier tail or carry it cocked to one side. Song sparows and field sparrows are common year-round residents.