Rock Sparrow
NameRock Sparrow
Common NameRock Sparrow
Scientific NamePetronia petronia
FamilyPasseridae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)31
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are streaky brown with darker streaks on the mantle and back. Underparts are whitish with brown streaking on the flanks and breast. It has a dark eye-stripe, a pale supercilium, and a distinctive, though often concealed, small yellow spot on the throat. The tail is dark with white tips on the outer feathers.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a harsh 'churr' call and a series of chirping and buzzing notes in its song, often described as 'twee-twee-twee'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, grassland, desert, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across southern Europe, northwest Africa, and through central Asia to western China. It is a resident species in much of its range, though some populations may undertake short-distance movements.
Identifying FeaturesStreaky brown plumage, Stocky build, Dark eye-stripe with pale supercilium, Small yellow throat spot (often hidden), White tips on outer tail feathers
Description
The Rock Sparrow is a medium-sized, stocky sparrow with streaky brown plumage. It typically inhabits rocky, open landscapes and is known for its somewhat shy demeanor, often perching on prominent rocks or cliffs.
