Pair of House Sparrows

The Familiar Urban Bird

The House Sparrow is a small, sturdy bird, measuring 14–18 cm in length. It has a rounded head, short tail, and stout bill, with a weight ranging from 24 to 39.5 grams. Generally, females are smaller than males, although males tend to be larger in winter, and females larger during the breeding season.

Appearance and Identification

The plumage of the House Sparrow varies between sexes and ages:

• Males: Boldly marked with a throat and chest patch called a “bib” or “badge.” They have a grey crown with black markings on the throat, pale grey cheeks and underparts, and a warm brown, streaked mantle and upper back. The lower back, rump, and upper tail coverts are greyish-brown.
• Females and juveniles: Mostly buff-colored with brown streaks on upper parts, lacking the black head markings and grey crown found in males.

House Sparrows are recognized by their short, repeated chirp calls, which form the basis of all their vocalizations.

Habitat and Behavior

House Sparrows are highly social and gregarious throughout the year. They feed in flocks, often alongside other birds, and roost communally. Their nests are usually built close together in clumps, and they engage in social behaviors such as dust and water bathing and “social singing”, where multiple birds call together from bushes.

While they primarily feed on the ground, House Sparrows will also forage in trees and shrubs.

Conservation Status

Once a ubiquitous sight in towns and villages, the House Sparrow population is now declining rapidly, both in India and worldwide. Rapid urbanization and habitat changes are key contributors to this decline, making conservation awareness increasingly important.

Commemorative Postage Stamps

To celebrate these familiar and beloved birds, the Department of Posts has issued special commemorative postage stamps featuring the House Sparrow. This stamp honor the iconic birds of India, highlighting their ecological importance and cultural familiarity.