Tree Sparrow - Passer montanus, species information page

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Biodiversity Action Plan species Tree Sparrow - Passer montanus

Found over all of Europe, living mainly in open country, woods, gardens and some towns, building a nest of straw, dry grass and feathers in hollow trees, walls or sometimes other bird's nests. Length to 14cm, both sexes are similar in appearance and easily distinguished from the house sparrow by a brown cap and neck, and a black patch on white cheeks. Plumage brown streaked on it's back with a pale underside, juveniles lack the black cheek patch.

Will nest up to 3 times a year, laying a clutch of 5 to 6 grey-green spotted eggs, incubated by both parents in turn for 12 to 14 days. Young mainly fed on insects but adults feed on seeds. Does not migrate in the winter, but forms large flocks. Utters house sparrow-like chirps but a sharp "tik tik" in flight.

Biodiversity Action Plan species The Tree Sparrow, P. montanus is a listed species in the "Biodiversity Action Plan for Hampshire", as a possibly present breeding species, with a rapidly declining population, locally rare with a high threat rating. Listed in hedgerows and arable land. A SAP exists for the Tree Sparrow, as a mosaic landscape species with a high profile or indicator species rating. The Tree Sparrow also has a UK BAP priority species rating and is also a Red List species of high conservation concern.

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