At one time the house sparrow was one of the most frequent visitors to our gardens
but in recent years there has been a dramatic decline in their numbers. After a few
years where we saw very few house sparrows we now seem to have more then our fair
share which is mainly due to use providing a range of food and water. We also have
plenty of nearby bushes - some evergreen where they can take cover and feel safe
when they are spooked.
Sparrows travel in mixed flocks of male and female birds. Although sparrows may be
considered by some to be boring brown birds if you take some time to look more closely
you will appreciate them more. The male has a dark grey cap and bib, chestnut brown
feathers on its head and light grey cheeks patches. The female is mainly buff and
brown with darker streaks on its back and a pale eye streak. She lacks the cap and
bib.