Northern Grey-headed Sparrow

Overview

The northern grey-headed sparrow (Passer griseus), also known as the grey-headed sparrow, is a resident bird species found across much of tropical Africa. It often occupies the same ecological niche as the house sparrow in Eurasia and is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Identification

• Pale grey head with a white moustache stripe
• Pale brown upperparts and whitish underparts
• Chestnut wings featuring a small white shoulder patch
• Sexes are similar, though young birds are duller and lack the white wing patch
• Vocalisations include cheeps, chirps, and a typical sparrow churring alarm call

Habitat

Resident in much of tropical Africa, it inhabits a wide range of open environments including open woodlands and areas of human habitation. In eastern and southern Africa, it is replaced by similar species such as Swainson's sparrow and the parrot-billed sparrow.

Diet

This species feeds principally on seeds and grain but will readily take insects, including termites, especially when feeding its young.

Did you know?

Although mainly resident, flocks of up to 50 birds form outside the breeding season. The bird frequently builds its cup nest within old nests of other species.