ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - House Sparrow

 House Sparrow

house sparrow

The house sparrow, originally from Eurasia, was introduced to North America in 1851. They have since prospered in areas associated with humans.

 
Listen
 

House Sparrow
Passer domesticus

At-a-Glance

• Peak Breeding Activity: March-August

• Incubation: 11 days

• Clutch Size: 1-8 eggs

• Young Fledge: 14 days after hatching

• Typical Foods: seeds and insects

Description
The male house sparrow has a gray body and crown with a brown back and wings streaked with black. It also has a black throat, white cheeks, and a touch of red on the back of the neck. The female is dull brown with a pale eyebrow.

Habitat and Habits
House sparrows thrive in areas dominated by humans, including urban and agricultural areas.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Nests are made of all sorts of available materials and are usually placed in natural or man-made cavities. Both parents incubate and feed the young.