sparrow
1. Bird Name
English name of the bird: Sparrow
Scientific (Latin) name: Passeridae ( family of Sparrows)
2. Appearance
Sparrows are small, plump bird species characterized by their typically dull-colored appearance. They have short tails, powerful beaks, and brown-grey plumage marked with fading hues and black streaks for males and more muted brown shades for females. Their beak shapes are robust and conical, designed for a seed-eating diet. Eye color often ranges between shades of dark brown and black.
3. Size
A typical Sparrow measures around 16 cm (6.3 inches) long, with a wingspan averaging 22-25 cm (8.7-9.8 inches). Sparrows are lightweight creatures, with an adult bird averaging 24-39.5 grams (0.85-1.4 oz).
4. Habitat & Distribution
Geographically, Sparrows are found worldwide; they inhabit every continent except Antarctica. Notably, they are native to most of Europe, the Mediterranean region, much of Asia and parts of North Africa. They have also been intentionally or accidentally introduced to many regions including the Americas, Sub-Saharan Africa, Australia and New Zealand. Sparrows exhibit an affinity for urban and rural environments, often dwelling close to human settlements in regions with a moderate climate.
5. Interesting Facts
Sparrows are known for their social behavior, often gathering in large flocks. They are adept flyers, able to perform aerial acrobatics when escaping predators. Culturally, Sparrows have long been symbols of companionship and simple joy in various traditions. For example, in ancient Egypt, sparrows symbolized love.
6. Diet
Sparrows primarily consume seeds, although their diet can be augmented by berries, fruits and small insects, particularly when breeding or feeding their young.
7. Behavior & Sounds
Sparrows often exhibit gregarious behavior, being most active during the day (diurnal). Their nests are intricately built in crevices, tree hollows, or artificial structures like buildings and streetlights. Male sparrows attract females through song and wing-waving display. The typical Sparrow’s song is a series of cheeps and chirrup sounds, creating rhythmic and harmonious melodies.
8. Conservation Status
The IUCN Red List identifies most Sparrow species as being of least concern, yet the population trend seems to be decreasing due to factors like urbanization and intensification of agriculture.
9. Lifespan
Sparrows live approximately 4-5 years in the wild, while in captivity, they may live up to 12 years.
10. Additional Notes
Sparrows, in different cultures, are referred to with various names. For instance, in Spanish, they are known as ‘Gorrion.’ They often have close interactions with humans due to their habitation in urban environments. Ecologically, Sparrows maintain a balance in the ecosystem by feeding on several types of seeds and insects. Many predators such as owls, cats, and snakes rely on them as a major food source.
