House Sparrow (Male)

Description:

The House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) is a bird of the sparrow family Passeridae, found in most parts of the world. A small bird, it has a typical length of 16 cm (6.3 in) and a weight of 24–39.5 g (0.85–1.39 oz). Females and young birds are coloured pale brown and grey, and males have brighter black, white, and brown markings. The House Sparrow occurs naturally in most of Europe, the Mediterranean region, and much of Asia. Its intentional or accidental introductions to many regions, including parts of Australia, Africa, and the Americas, make it the most widely distributed wild bird.

Habitat:

The House Sparrow is strongly associated with human habitations, and can live in urban or rural settings. Though found in widely varied habitats and climates, it typically avoids extensive woodlands, grasslands, and deserts away from human development. It feeds mostly on the seeds of grains and weeds, and insects, and can perform complex and unusual tasks to obtain food. Its predators include domestic cats, hawks, owls, and many other predatory birds and mammals.

Notes:

These are taken in my back yard. The last two are of a younger male. This species is a permanent residence in our area. In San Antonio, I have noticed that they do prefer to live in large groups. They will make nests in the local Sabal and Mexican Palm trees at the base of the fronds. I have not found their preferred nesting spots in my area though. Most likely in someones palms near me. They seem to have spotters in each group that keep watch for dangers. When the spotter takes flight, the group follows. They will also warn all other birds of nearby threats such as cats and snakes. And all of the birds in the area seem to understand these calls. If you listen carefully, you can hear every local bird gathering in one spot and complaining all at once. This usually means that a snake has been spotted and they aren't going to let it out of their sight. They will all gang up so that everyone knows it's location. This is how I locate some snakes and once my husband tried to remove a snake as the local Chickadees flew around his head while trying to attack the snake in his hands. Most likely trying to protect him too.