The house sparrow (Passer domesticus) is a bird of the sparrow family Passeridae, found in most parts of the world. It is a small bird that has a typical length of 16 cm (6.3 in) and a mass of 24–39.5 g (0.85–1.39 oz). Females and young birds are coloured pale brown and grey, and males have brighter black, white, and brown markings. One of about 25 species in the genus Passer, the house sparrow is native to most of Europe, the Mediterranean Basin, and a large part of Asia. Its intentional or accidental introductions to many regions, including parts of Australasia, Africa, and the Americas, make it the most widely distributed wild bird.
The house sparrow is strongly associated with human habitation, and can live in urban or rural settings. Though found in widely varied habitats and climates, it typically avoids extensive woodlands, grasslands, and deserts away from human development. It feeds mostly on the seeds of grains and weeds, but it is an opportunistic eater and commonly eats insects and many other foods. Its predators include domestic cats, hawks, and many other predatory birds and mammals.
Because of its numbers, ubiquity, and association with human settlements, the house sparrow is culturally prominent. It is extensively, and usually unsuccessfully, persecuted as an agricultural pest. It has also often been kept as a pet, as well as being a food item and a symbol of lust, sexual potency, commonness, and vulgarity. Though it is widespread and abundant, its numbers have declined in some areas. The animal's conservation status is listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List.
The plucky house sparrow is one of the most widespread birds in the world, having been introduced in so many places that it is often considered an invasive species. Ironically, however, its population is experiencing serious decline in many of its native regions and conservation measures are necessary to protect this member of the Passeridae bird family from vanishing from its home range. This fact sheet can help birders not only recognize these birds, but better understand their needs and how to manage them where appropriate.
Fast Facts
Scientific Name: Passer domesticus
Common Name: House Sparrow, Common Sparrow, English Sparrow, Sparrow
Lifespan: 3-4 years
Size: 5-6 inches
Weight: .85-1.4 ounces
Wingspan: 9 inches
Conservation Status: Least concern
House Sparrow Identification
Male and female house sparrows look distinctly different. Males have a black chin and bib, white cheeks, and a rust-colored cap and nape of neck. The black on the chin and breast can vary widely, with older, more dominant males showing more extensive black. The underparts are pale grayish, and the back and wings show brown and black streaking. The rump is gray. Males also have a single white wing bar. Females are plainer, with a broad buff eyebrow and brown and buff streaks on the wings and back. On both genders, the legs and feet are pale and the eyes are dark. Overall, both males and females have a stocky appearance. Juveniles resemble adult females but with less distinctive markings and a less defined eyebrow.
House sparrows can be very vocal in large groups but are often quieter when isolated. Their calls include a fluttery “cheep” and rapid chattering sounds. Young birds may use a variety of soft begging calls to attract their parents' attention in the nest.
Migration Pattern
House sparrows do not generally migrate but may become nomadic when seeking food sources. Where food remains abundant, including at backyard feeders, these birds will be found year-round.
Behavior
House sparrows congregate in large flocks to feed and roost, and bird colonies may be made up of several family flocks. These birds may become aggressive toward other birds feeding nearby and are bold around humans.
Diet and Feeding
These birds are generally granivorous and eat primarily seeds and grains. When their favored food sources are less abundant, they will sample a wide range of other foods, including fruit, suet, and insects. They typically forage on the ground, hopping and scratching with their feet, or hop about in trees and bushes while looking for insects.
Being so used to humans has made house sparrows resourceful in finding unique food supplies. They have been seen inspecting car grills for insects, and will feed on farms searching for spilled seed and grain, even picking through piles of horse or cow dung. They will also visit compost piles and other unique options when looking for food.
Nesting
House sparrows are generally monogamous and build bulky nests in roof crevices, nesting boxes, and natural tree cavities, or they may chase other birds out of nests. The nest is usually composed of grass, twigs, straw, weeds, feathers, and similar material, but it will not be reused for additional broods.
