Passer domesticus, commonly known as the House Sparrow, is a small bird species belonging to the Passeridae family. Found throughout much of the world, it is native to Eurasia and Northern Africa but has been widely introduced to various regions around the globe, including North America, Australia, and South Africa.
The House Sparrow is a compact bird, approximately 15-17 cm in length, with a plump body, short wings, and a square-shaped tail. Males display a distinct black bib on their throat and chest, while females have a pale stripe above the eye and a duller appearance overall. Its plumage varies in shades of brown and gray, providing camouflage in urban and rural habitats.
As an adapting and resilient species, the House Sparrow predominantly resides in close association with human settlements, where it nests, roosts, and feeds. It favors urban areas such as cities, towns, and suburban gardens, where it relies on various food sources, including seeds, grains, insects, scraps, and berries.
House Sparrows are highly social birds that form large flocks, exhibiting a complex system of vocalizations for communication. They construct untidy nests in buildings, trees, or shrubs, and breeding takes place mainly from spring to summer, with females usually laying 4-6 eggs per clutch. This prolific species can produce multiple broods in a single breeding season.
Despite being a common and frequently seen bird, the House Sparrow population has experienced declines in certain regions due to habitat loss, pollution, and competition from invasive bird species. However, it remains an integral part of urban birdlife, known for its adaptability and ability to thrive in proximity to human activities.
