House Sparrow Facts
Passer domesticus
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
House Sparrow Facts at a Glance
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.
It belongs to the family Passeridae in the order Passeriformes. This profile is designed as a concise starting point; the source names below document the review basis.
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?
House Sparrows have a omnivore diet that includes Mostly grains and seeds, supplemented by insects. The food available in their environment shapes how they find, hunt, forage for, or receive meals.
House Sparrow Lifespan, Size, and Weight
House Sparrows typically live for Usually several years; recorded up to 13 years in the wild. Adults measure about 14–16 cm and weigh around 24–38 g; these ranges can vary with sex, age, environment, and access to food.
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.
Quick facts
- Region
- Native to Eurasia and North Africa; introduced worldwide
- Habitat
- Urban, Farmland, Residential
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Lifespan
- Usually several years; recorded up to 13 years in the wild
- Size
- 14–16 cm
- Weight
- 24–38 g
Fun facts
- House sparrows usually hop rather than walk while foraging on the ground.
- Both parents incubate eggs and feed their young.
- Males have a black throat patch and brighter head markings than females.
- They often nest in cavities and gaps in buildings.
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Sources and image credit
Animal facts are reviewed against the references below. The photograph remains available under the stated license.