West · Pacific Flyway

Are There Lincoln's Sparrows in Oregon?

Yes, but uncommon — Lincoln's Sparrows occur in Oregon mainly from January to December. Melospiza lincolnii · Passerellidae

UncommonAbundance
Winter visitorSeasonal status
8Active months
30,775Observations

Is the Lincoln's Sparrow Found in Oregon?

Lincoln's Sparrows do occur in Oregon, but they are considered uncommon. Encountering one requires patience and the right habitat in winter.

Where to see them instead: the nearest states where Lincoln's Sparrows occur regularly are Washington (about 200 miles away), Idaho (about 380 miles away) and Nevada (about 440 miles away).

Often mistaken for Lincoln's Sparrows in Oregon: Dark-eyed Junco, Song Sparrow, Spotted Towhee and Chipping Sparrow — these occur regularly in Oregon, so compare them carefully before concluding you saw a Lincoln's Sparrow.

Lincoln's Sparrow is a North American backyard bird.

In Oregon, this species is classified as uncommon. It is primarily a winter visitor to Oregon. The best months to observe this bird are January, February, March, April, September, October, November, December. Peak activity occurs in April, September, October, December.

Monthly Activity — Lincoln's Sparrow in Oregon

Relative frequency of observations by month. Higher bars indicate peak periods for this species.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
RegularSeasonalRare

Identification

FamilyPasserellidae
View full Lincoln's Sparrow profile →

Best Time to See Lincoln's Sparrow in Oregon

January
Peak
February
Peak
March
Peak
April
Peak
May
Active
June
Active
July
Active
August
Low
September
Peak
October
Peak
November
Peak
December
Peak

Other birds in Oregon

Birds you might also encounter in Oregon.

Lincoln's Sparrow in other states

Lincoln's Sparrow in Oregon: Quick Facts

The Lincoln's Sparrow (Melospiza lincolnii) is an uncommon bird in Oregon. It is classified as a winter visitor in the state, falling within the West region and the Pacific Flyway migration corridor.

The best months to spot this species in Oregon are January, February, March, April, September, October, November, December. For birders in Portland and throughout Oregon, knowing the seasonal patterns of Lincoln's Sparrow can help plan birding trips and backyard feeding strategies.

Use the monthly activity chart above to plan your birding outings, and explore other bird species found in Oregon using the related birds section.