House Sparrow

A bird found in towns and villages that has vanished from many places in Finland.

Identification

A small grey-brown bird with a sturdy beak. The back is brown and streaked, the belly and crown are grey. The male has a black eye patch and throat patch, with a reddish-brown stripe behind the eye. The female lacks the black markings. Listen to the sparrow’s call by clicking the button above.

Habitat

The house sparrow lives close to humans. It nests in cities, towns, and farms. Barns are particularly favourable for sparrows, but they can also nest at gas stations and parks. Sparrows usually nest in building crevices, rarely in birdhouses.

Distribution

Widespread throughout Europe and globally. In Italy habits only some border areas on the Alps.

Nutrition

The sparrow feeds on seeds and invertebrates. Also visits bird feeders. Parents feed their chicks with insect larvae.

Breeding

Closely associated with human habitation. Breeds very commonly around farmyards, in towns and villages. Nests under roof tiles, in holes and cavities. May also build nests in open site.

Migration

Resident bird. Young individuals may search for breeding sites further away.

Status and conservation

Globally Least concern (LC). The population trend in Europe is considered slightly decreasing. Endangered (EN) in Finland, the breeding population has declined sharply since the 1980s. The reason is at least partly due to changes in agriculture.

Cultural heritage

The house sparrow has a rich presence in cultural heritage in many of the European countries. In Finnish culture it was regarded as the soul bird of children. In some countries the house sparrow was often considered an ominous bird. Reed more from the booklet.