At one time people did not realise
that there were in fact two distinct species of sparrow. For those
of you who are unsure the House Sparrow is the one on the left
above, which means the Tree Sparrow is on the right.
House Sparrow
Passer domesticus, the House Sparrow was very common wherever
people lived. Sadly its numbers have been in decline, quite alarmingly
it has to be said. There is even a London Park where they recently
failed to count any of this species! Luckily I am fortunate to
still have the chirp of the House Sparrow in my garden with a
flock that can number up to 15 when the weather is poor and they
are looking for food. But for how long? We endeavor to supply
food for them with a peanut feeder and a seed feeder which we
keep well stocked up. Plus they get treats such as a nice jacket
potato now and again which they seem to enjoy. We supply food
throughout the year not just the winter months, but we do stop
putting out whole peanuts when there are likely to be young to
feed.
Tree Sparrow
Passer montanus, the Tree Sparrow is a rare bird everywhere and
you have to seek out specific locations to guarantee seeing this
bird now. About forty years ago they were as about as common as
they had ever been following a period of expansion. Since then
they have plummeted spectacularly and all indications are that
they will continue to decline! You can count yourself exceptionally
lucky if they visit your garden.
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