Eurasian Tree Sparrow

A smaller, more elegant relative of the House Sparrow. It lives in open countryside, forest edges, and orchards rather than deep forests. In Europe, it is less dependent on humans than the House Sparrow. It readily uses nest boxes. It is a resident species, but populations have declined due to intensive farming.

Tree Sparrows are shy and more 'wild' than House Sparrows. They are social birds and form mixed flocks with finches in winter. They have a metallic 'tek-tek' call that is higher in pitch than a House Sparrow's. They are cavity nesters and often use old woodpecker holes or crevices in mature trees.