• East view from Crissy Field overlook with old Coast Guard station on left and city on right

    Presidio of San Francisco

    California

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  • CAUTION: Post Storm Damage to Coastal Trail

    The Presidio Coastal Trail segment just north of the Pacific Overlook and adjacent to Lincoln Blvd remains CLOSED indefinitely. We have posted signage to alert bicyclists and hikers and with information for safe trail alternatives. More »

Golden-crowned Sparrow

(Zonotrichia atricapilla)
 
Golden-crowned Sparrow
A Golden-crowned Sparrow sits in blackberry bushes in Tennessee Hollow.
Will Elder, NPS
 

Natural History: The Golden-crowned Sparrow eats plant foods, foraging on the ground. It seeks cover in shrubs and nests on the ground adjacent to its cover. This species breeds in Canada during the summer and forms mixed flocks.

General Distribution: In the Presidio, this species can be found in annual grasslands, coastal and dune scrub areas, all forested areas, on lawns, and amongst ornamentals.

Frequency: This species is common in the spring and fall and abundant during the winter.

Identifying Characteristics: The Golden-crowned Sparrow can be identified by its golden crown patch bordered by dark brown to black streaks and a plain gray to buff breast.

Presidio Birds main page

Did You Know?

Officers' Quarters built on Infantry Terrace in 1910

The entire Presidio has been designated a National Historic Landmark.  Of the 870 structures on the former post, 470 are considered to have historical significance.