Spanish Sparrow
NameSpanish Sparrow
Common NameSpanish Sparrow
Scientific NamePasser hispaniolensis
FamilyPasseridae
Wingspan (cm)24.5
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)29
Plumage DetailsMale has a rich chestnut crown and nape, a prominent black bib extending down the breast, and heavily streaked black and white flanks. The back is rufous-brown with black streaks, and there's a distinct white wing bar. Cheeks are white.
Vocalization / CallSimilar to the House Sparrow, a series of chirps and cheeps, often described as a 'chirrup' or 'chissip'. They are generally noisy birds, especially in colonies.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, urban, wetland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the Mediterranean region, including southern Europe, North Africa, and parts of the Middle East and Central Asia. Migratory populations winter in North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.
Identifying Featureschestnut crown, black bib, streaked flanks, white cheeks, white wing bar
Description
The Spanish Sparrow is a medium-sized passerine bird, closely related to the House Sparrow. Males are strikingly patterned with a chestnut crown, black bib, and heavily streaked flanks, while females are duller. They are highly gregarious, often forming large colonies, especially during breeding.
