We used a recorded song of the Bachman's Sparrow (Aimophila aestivalis) to determine whether recorded vocalizations improved detection of this secretive species in winter. Surveys were conducted in the Red Hills region of northern Florida and southwestern Georgia under a range of climatic conditions. Bachman's Sparrows responded readily to taped vocalizations and were detected only on surveys where recorded vocalizations were used. A total of 251 individuals (mean = 1.01 per stop) was observed, or approximately 10–15 observations/h. Detections decreased at lower ambient temperatures and also varied among sites, but adequate numbers were observed even when maximum daytime temperatures remained < 3° C. We believe variation in the number of sparrows observed among sites may relate to variation in ground cover. Bachman's Sparrows were most common in areas with extensive native ground cover, but further studies are needed. We recommend use of recorded vocalizations in winter surveys of Bachman's Sparrows and suggest recorded vocalizations may help in winter surveys of other secretive sparrows.