Northern Grey-headed Sparrow

The Northern grey-headed sparrow, scientifically known as Passer griseus, is a modestly adorned bird, a member of the sparrow family Passeridae. It is recognized by its pale grey head and a distinctive white moustache stripe, with pale brown upperparts and whitish underparts. The chestnut wings are marked by a small white shoulder patch, adding a touch of elegance to its otherwise understated plumage.

Identification Tips

Adults of this species can be identified by their grey heads and the white moustache stripe. Both sexes appear similar, but the juveniles are slightly duller and lack the white wing patch. Variations among the three subspecies are mostly in the tone of their plumage, particularly the darkness of the head.

Habitat

The Northern grey-headed sparrow is quite adaptable, making its home in a variety of open habitats. These include open woodlands and areas of human habitation, where it fills a niche similar to that of the house sparrow in Eurasia.

Distribution

This bird is a resident of much of tropical Africa, where it is commonly found across a wide geographical range.

Behaviour

The Northern grey-headed sparrow is mainly sedentary, though some seasonal movement has been observed. It is a sociable bird, often forming flocks of up to 50 individuals outside the breeding season.

Breeding

Breeding habits involve constructing a cup-shaped nest in trees, thatch, or even utilizing the old nests of other birds. The female typically lays a clutch of 2 to 4 eggs.

Diet and Feeding

Like its sparrow relatives, this species primarily feeds on seeds and grain. However, it exhibits flexibility in its diet by consuming insects, including termites, which becomes particularly important when feeding its young.

Song & Calls

The Northern grey-headed sparrow communicates with a repertoire of cheeps and chirps, and when alarmed, it emits the characteristic sparrow churring call.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified the Northern grey-headed sparrow as Least Concern, indicating that currently, there are no significant threats to its population.