Yellow-throated Sparrow

The Yellow-throated Sparrow, also known as the Chestnut-shouldered Petronia, is a small passerine bird with a distinctive appearance. It possesses a finer bill compared to its Passer genus counterparts and lacks streaks on its plumage. The species is characterized by a double white wing bar on the shoulder, which stands out against its otherwise grey-brown feathers.

Identification Tips

Males of the species can be identified by a chestnut patch on the shoulder, which may be difficult to discern at times. They also exhibit a pale yellow spot on the throat when in fresh plumage. Females, on the other hand, are somewhat duller and do not have the chestnut shoulder patch. The yellow throat spot is either greatly reduced or absent in females.

Habitat

This tree-loving species is also occasionally observed on wires and on the ground, where it exhibits a hopping gait.

Distribution

The Yellow-throated Sparrow's range extends from Turkey through Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. It has also been recorded as a vagrant in Sri Lanka and potentially parts of Myanmar. Its preferred environments include forests, gardens, and open scrub areas.

Behaviour

The species is known to roost communally in low bushes and exhibits migratory behavior in response to rainfall. Its flight is bounding in nature, with a noticeable dip before ascending again.

Song & Calls

The typical call of the Yellow-throated Sparrow is a chirrup, while its song is a distinctive and repetitive "chilp chalp cholp."

Breeding

Breeding occurs in tree hollows from April to July, with the species often utilizing holes created by other birds such as barbets and woodpeckers. Nests may also be constructed in hollows on buildings. The female primarily builds the nest and incubates the eggs, occasionally leaving the nest during the hotter parts of the day. Eggs hatch after approximately 12 to 14 days.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Yellow-throated Sparrow mainly consists of grains, but it also includes insects, nectar, and berries. An interesting dietary choice is the petals of flowers, such as those from the Madhuca indica tree. When visiting flowers, the birds often get their foreheads covered in pollen.

Conservation status

The Yellow-throated Sparrow is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating that it is not at immediate risk of population decline.