A male house sparrow perched on a stone ledge — Photo: Rhododendrites · CC BY-SA 4.0

Bird

House Sparrow Facts Passer domesticus

BirdNative to Eurasia and North Africa; introduced worldwideOmnivore

House sparrows are small, social birds closely associated with farms, towns, and cities. Their stout bills handle grains and seeds, while insects become especially important food for growing chicks.

Habitat: Urban
Diet: Mostly grains and seeds, supplemented by insects
Lifespan: Usually several years; recorded up to 13 years in the wild

Classification

Family: Passeridae. Order: Passeriformes.

House Sparrow Habitat

House Sparrows live in Urban and Farmland and Residential habitats. Their recorded range includes Native to Eurasia and North Africa; introduced worldwide. Suitable food, shelter, and conditions for raising young help shape that range.

What Do House Sparrows Eat?

Diet classification: Omnivore. Recorded foods: Mostly grains and seeds, supplemented by insects.

House Sparrow Lifespan, Size, and Weight

Recorded lifespan: Usually several years; recorded up to 13 years in the wild. Recorded size: 14–16 cm. Recorded weight: 24–38 g.

House Sparrow Conservation Status

House Sparrow is listed here as Least Concern. Protecting habitat, maintaining healthy prey or food sources, and reducing human pressure are important parts of conserving wild populations.