The white-throated sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis) is similar to the white-crowned sparrow, but with white throat markings and yellow lores. There are two adult plumage variations – the tan-striped and white-striped. The two colour forms are determined by genetic differences, and are unique among birds. The white-striped crown is black with a white central stripe. The supercilium is white as well. The tan crown is dark brown with a tan central stripe. Oddly, it almost always pairs with the opposite colour morph for breeding. Males of both colour types prefer females with white stripes, and both kinds of females prefer tan-striped males. It is found across North America.
