The House Sparrow: The Endangered Bird

Author:
Chitrangada Sharan
Updated:
Dec 26, 2024

House Sparrows in my balcony is lovely sight.
Chitrangada Sharan Images

The declining number of Sparrows is a cause of concern

One of the most common birds, which we can see around us, especially in urban areas, is the sparrow or the house sparrow or the citizen sparrow.
They can be spotted close to human habitation, near houses, apartments, garden, parks etc. They feed on regular grains, seeds, etc. They also make their nests on concrete surfaces of houses, buildings etc. In many cultures, they are considered auspicious and a symbol of good luck.
Many of us have grown up seeing them, first thing in the morning.
But, we don't get to see, as many Sparrows these days, as earlier, especially around high rise buildings in metro cities, or the cities with too much urbanisation.
Let’s look back, how the number of the house sparrows is declining.

Some 40-50 years earlier

When I was a little girl, I remember, we woke up in the morning, with the sweet chirping sound, of this charming, and active bird.

So many of them, sat in a row, in the garden, over the roof tops, in the backyard. Almost everywhere, their presence energized the whole atmosphere.

It‘s difficult to say, who was more delighted to see the other--Me, or the Sparrows.

We used to watch them, feed their cute little ones, inside their nest. The mother sparrow would bring some food in her beak to the nest, and all the 3-4 little ones would start shouting--- Cheee-Cheee-Chee; from inside their nest, showing off their tender pink beaks and head. They seemed all eager, to have the food, from the mother sparrow, at the same time. It was such a refreshing and lovely sight,

This was our favourite pass time, as there were no T.V. or Internet, and we were not so much overburdened, or stressed, like today's children.

Just study, play around and be happy--Such a simple life!

Some 25-30 years earlier

Even when my kids were younger, these beautiful birds were regular visitors, in my balcony. I have such pleasant memories, of a number of Sparrows, on my balcony wall, some two decades ago.

My kids used to love the sight. They would feed them with rice grains, or other grains, and pulses. And the sight of the grains disappearing within minutes, was so pleasing to my kids.

But the nests were not much visible around, and the numbers of the sparrows also was decreasing.

Sparrows on my terrace!
Chitrangada Sharan Images

The House Sparrows: The Situation Now

Sad but true—These lovely Sparrows are the endangered one.

Some of the possible reasons, which come to my mind for this, can be listed as follows:---

Not much greenery, whether small or big plants and trees, around our homes.
Our homes, during our childhood, were surrounded with many fruit trees, such as the guava and the grape plants.
Such trees attract birds, as their abode, and they make their nest, on them.
Nowadays, these fruit plants are rarely found, around the residential areas.
Many flowering plants, like the Jasmine, lily, Rose, Marigold, and so many of them, were planted in big homes.
That was enough to keep the air, pollution free and the birds happy, and they used to keep coming in.
Due to the urbanisatio, and the heavy doze of technology, this kind of vegetation can be found, in the society parks only, not at the individual residences, which have turned into apartments.
Another very important reason, seems to be, the excessive use of the mobile phones. I don't know how, but they are responsible for the decreasing number of this charming bird.
According to the environmental expert, this may be because of the electromagnetic radaition, emitted from the mobile towers.

World Sparrow Day is Celebrated on 20th March

Save the citizen sparrow campaign at IITF Delhi pavilion.
Chitrangada Sharan Images

Quotes

“Tell me not of joy: there's none Now my little sparrow's gone; He, just as you, Would toy and woo, He would chirp and flatter me, He would hang the wing awhile, Till at length he saw me smile, Lord! how sullen he would be.”
~~~William Cartwright

Plant more fruit trees in your area!
Chitrangada Sharan Images

Avoid cutting trees
Chitrangada Sharan images

What To Do To Protect The Sparrows

Environmentalists, all over the World, are doing a lot of research, to find out the reasons, for the decreasing number of the House Sparrows, and also suggesting ways, which you and me can follow.

Attract the bird, by means of enough vegetation, in your area.
Plant more, especially flowering plants. Fragrance and colours of the flowers attracts, not only birds, but bees, butterflies and other creatures.
All such creatures are important and a part of our ecosystem.
Keep wooden boxes on the tree branches, and on your terrace, so that they are able to make their nest.
Even if you have a little space, you can grow some plants in your balcony or terrace. It’s beneficial for your own health and the environment, as well.
Spread some grains on your balcony wall, or the open spaces, and also keep some water, in a small container, suitable for their small beaks.
Create awareness among the people, especially the younger generation.
Buildings, apartments, skyscrapers everywhere; let’s create some green space, for the birds.
Avoid cutting of the trees, unless necessary.

Scroll to Continue

why-trump-vs-biden-the-matrix-he-is-the-one-youtube-video-is-so-relevant-today

House Sparrow, source: You tube

Quotes

Happy is the person who not only sings, but feels God's eye is on the sparrow, and knows He watches over me. To be simply ensconced in God is true joy.
~~~Alfred A. Montaper

To Conclude

One fact is very easy to understand even by common the people like us—

All the birds, including the Sparrows, are susceptible to the effects of the ever increasing pollution levels, in the air and the water.
Human beings may get sick, or develop diseases, because of the pollution, but the birds are more vulnerable, and sadly they seem to be dying, because of this.
The World Sparrow day is observed annually, on March 20. Various measures are adopted to protect this endangered species.
Let us take a pledge, to do something, for this endangered bird, and create awareness among others as well, so that we have more and more pleasant and welcome visits, by this charming and active bird--The House Sparrow!

Further Suggested Readings:

1.https://www.wwfindia.org/about_wwf/priority_species/threatened_species/house_sparrow/

2. https://india.mongabay.com/2020/02/saving-sparrows-in-cities-one-nest-at-a-time/
3. https://scroll.in/magazine/876586/the-sparrow-is-dying-out-in-indian-cities-this-is-how-you-can-help-save-it-from-your-terrace

Most endangered birds, source: You tube

This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional.

Comments

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on August 23, 2020:

Thank you Peggy, for sharing your thoughts.

Things are definitely much better, from the time I had published this article, some 5 years ago. All due to the combined efforts of the people and the government.

The place where I live now, has particularly lot of greenery around and attracts many unique birds, besides the house sparrow.

Thank you so much for reading and commenting.

Peggy Woods from Houston, Texas on August 23, 2020:

In our area of Houston, we have many sparrows. In fact, they regularly use our birdhouse in which to lay their eggs and bear their young.

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on August 21, 2020:

Thank you Sp Greaney, for reading the article and sharing your thoughts.

I feel good to tell you, that things have improved a lot, by the consistent efforts of the people and the government.

It’s so pleasing to be greeted by the chitter chatter of the birds early in the morning.

Thank you for commenting.

S.P. Greaney from Ireland on August 20, 2020:

I hope that they don't end up becoming extinct. I think more green spaces and trees are required to keep these guys around. Its always nice to see wild birds visit your garden.

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on March 19, 2017:

Thank you Lyn for your kind visit and comments!

I appreciate your concern about these wonderful birds that must be saved from extinction. The problem is more predominant in urban areas compared to rural areas. Although the administration is taking proper care, much to our satisfaction, everyone has a role to play. And there is a need to spread awareness.

Hope your efforts bring success. Thanks for the positive feedback!

Lyn from England on March 19, 2017:

Interesting that I have noticed the exact same decline in the UK. I am fortunate to live in a rural spot and even so, we did not have sparrows here, then last year, I spotted one n the bird table, turns out we have a pair. I have been feeding them all winter and hope to see them breed. I'll update you if they do.

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on February 18, 2016:

Thank you Rajan Ji, for your encouraging words!

I appreciate your concern for these lovely sparrows which have reduced in numbers to a great extent especially in big cities.

A lot is being done by the general people , environmentalists and the government . It is heartening to see the positive results especially in community parks. Nowadays I can spot sparrows when I go for walks.

Thank you so much for your continued support!

Rajan Singh Jolly from From Mumbai, presently in Jalandhar, INDIA. on February 18, 2016:

So glad you brought up this topic. Since some years now the sparrows are hardly seen and the most likely cause is said to the increase in electro magnetic radiation with the increase in mobile towers.

Not long ago we would be awakened with their morning chirping, as you rightly mention. It is a pity these lovely birds are almost gone now.

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on January 04, 2016:

Thank you How to-Answers, for reading and commenting on this hub!

Most of us live in Metro cities with plenty of technology around. It is in the city areas where these lovely birds are reducing. Recently I had visited some countryside and we were delighted to see so many sparrows with their lovely sound on trees .

Thank God they are there elsewhere.

Appreciate your comments and your kind visit to this hub!

L M Reid from Ireland on January 01, 2016:

I always appreciate the birds that visit my garden these days. Because up until 4 years ago I too lived in built up areas where a sighting of any birds was very rare.

They are beautiful creatures and it is wonderful to see plenty of them in my garden winter and summer. I agree with you ChitrangadaSharan we as the human species should be more aware of our wonderful birds.

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on December 17, 2015:

Thank you Mary, for reading and commenting on this hub!

I agree with you that birds add charm and energy in our lives. Life with less birds around would be so dull. Therefore we must take steps so that they are safe.

Thank you and enjoy your holidays!

Mary Norton from Ontario, Canada on December 16, 2015:

I love birds and their songs wake me up each morning. We are on holiday now and even where we are, birds seem to follow us. I will definitely be sad when they leave.

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on October 01, 2015:

Thank you Linda, for your lovely comments!

I agree nothing can be more beautiful than the sight and sound of active birds chirping in the gentle morning Sun. I also feed these lovely creatures in the morning and as you said Squirrels are super fast. It is a lovely sight.

Thank you and have a good day!

Linda Bilyeu from Orlando, FL on September 30, 2015:

I love waking up each morning and hearing birds chirping, it is one of my favorite sounds, so peaceful. I have noticed many sparrows and they are beauties. I attempted to place bird seed outdoors for them, but the squirrels always beat the birds to the food.

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on August 03, 2015:

Thanks Nithya , for reading and commenting!

And I am happy you like the message of this hub. We all must do our little bit for the environment.

Thank you!

Nithya Venkat from Dubai on July 31, 2015:

Sparrows are great birds and must be saved. The air pollution does affect birds the most. Great hub, we should definitely do our bit to control pollution.

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on July 30, 2015:

Thank you Devika, for your kind visit and comments!

Glad you liked the hub. Its great to see you after a long time. Thank you!

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on July 30, 2015:

Thank you Michelle, for reading and commenting! Nice to see you after a long time.

Devika Primić from Dubrovnik, Croatia on July 29, 2015:

Wow! Incredible! I like birds and sparrows too are so special. You certainly got me reading all the way. A wonderful way to the start of any day.

Michelle Liew from Singapore on July 29, 2015:

Chitra, it is a beautiful thing to witness first thing in the morning!

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on July 20, 2015:

Thank you emge, for your kind visit and comments!

So sorry to know that these lovely birds are getting scarce in your area. We can spread awareness so that we all do our bit to save them from disappearing altogether.

Thanks for commenting!

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on July 20, 2015:

Thank you heidithorne, for reading and appreciating this hub!

Due to Urbanization and large scale use of technology, these house sparrows are reducing in numbers in metro cities.

They can still be found in areas where there is large scale vegetation, in agricultural fields etc.

Thanks for sharing your views on this subject.

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on July 20, 2015:

Thank you Kevin, for reading and commenting on this hub and sharing your thoughts.

Yes in the urban areas these sparrows have become scarce. But they can be seen in rural areas, farms, fields, orchards etc.

Thanks for sharing your views on this subject!

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on July 20, 2015:

Thank you Minnetonka Twin, for your kind visit and comments!

Glad you liked the subject of this hub and many thanks for your votes!

MG Singh emge from Singapore on July 19, 2015:

I love sparrows, but now they are so rare and I hardly see them in UAE. Lovely post and voted up

Heidi Thorne from Chicago Area on July 18, 2015:

We have many of them here where I am. We still have quite a population of sparrows, robins, cardinals and other birds. Luckily, there are still many nature areas around where I live which help them survive. Thank you for championing this common, but delightful, creature!

The Examiner-1 on July 18, 2015:

This is what you see, (or do not see), in India? I am sorry for you for they are cute to watch. I live in US state and I see them, and other birds, nearly every day. The House Sparrow here has adapted to living in the suburbs: e.g. up on skyscrapers and such.

They will eat just about anything that they can. In my yard when it does not rain for several days they - and other birds - will take their drinks and baths in a pie dish. I used that for a squirrel baffle but the feeder fell down.

It is too bad that you do not see as many anymore.

Kevin

Linda Rogers from Minnesota on July 18, 2015:

Now that I think about, we have less sparrows here in Minnesota too. So glad you had a sighting to fill your soul. Voted up and hit many buttons.

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on July 15, 2015:

Thank you Audrey Howitt, for stopping by and sharing your views!

Glad you liked it.

Audrey Howitt from California on July 14, 2015:

There do seem to be fewer sparrows here as well--great hub!

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on July 13, 2015:

Thank you thumbi7, for your kind visit and comments!

Glad to note that you can see these beautiful birds in your area.

Thanks for voting up, sharing and following me!

JR Krishna from India on July 12, 2015:

We see sparrows here very often in front of our department store. They will be pecking on rice grains fallen infront of the store while transporting

Great hub

Voted up and shared

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on July 10, 2015:

Thank you bluebird, for your insightful and beautiful comment!

I agree with you that even humans are endangered now. Read air pollution, water pollution and other factors affecting the environment.

Life has definitely changed a lot in the last few decades.

Thank you for stopping by and sharing your views!

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on July 10, 2015:

Thank you Nell, for appreciating this hub!

I am glad you liked the message. The more awareness we are able to spread, the better. All birds are beautiful creatures and they are all part of this Planet for a reason. So we must try to conserve all of them.

Thank you!

bluebird on July 09, 2015:

Good hub, sparrows, bluebirds, robins, hummingbirds, whatever...I like 'em all, they are fun to watch and feed.

I liked your highlighted quotes.

It looks to me like we're all on the endangered list, not just the birds, but they are more susceptible than us humans.

Life is different now. We must always look up to the one who made the birds, as He takes care of us, his little birds!

Nell Rose from Buckinghamshire UK on July 09, 2015:

Hi, I love all birds but sparrows are special aren't they? I never realised how endangered they are, this was fascinating and poignant too, nell

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on July 07, 2015:

Thank you peachpurple, for stopping by!

peachy from Home Sweet Home on July 07, 2015:

i love the sparrows chirping

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on June 30, 2015:

Thank you travmaj, for your kind visit and I appreciate your concern for this charming bird. It is sad but true that this beautiful bird is reducing in numbers at many places of the World. Many factors are responsible for this. And we must do our little bit to save them in addition to what our Governments are doing.

Appreciate your comments and lets all spread the awareness. Thank you!

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on June 30, 2015:

Thanks florypaula, for reading and commenting on this hub!

Every living creature that God has created has some role in the environment. We must try to conserve all of them.

Thank you!

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on June 30, 2015:

Thank you MarleneB, for reading and commenting on this hub!

Yes we all must do our little bit to save this beautiful endangered bird.

Thank you!

travmaj from australia on June 30, 2015:

This is so sad - I love house sparrows. I grew up in England and they were

just a part of our life. I rarely see them here in my garden in Australia (parrots galore and other charmers) However, we walk most days down by a lake and the sparrows are there waiting for the crumbs left over from the people feeding ducks. They are delightful little birds and I love watching them amidst all the water birds. . I'm sorry to hear they are becoming endangered, I shall be on the look out more often now and must check around the area. Lovely poetry here and thank you for alerting us -

Paula on June 30, 2015:

Lovely birds. I have a couple of doves in the tree in front of my apartment building window and they even have an egg. I can't wait to see the baby dove :)

Marlene Bertrand from USA on June 29, 2015:

Sparrows are beautiful birds, indeed. It is good to know that we can do our part to help encourage their existence.

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on June 29, 2015:

You are right Deb Hirt! And who better can understand these birds than you. Each time we loose a species, we are drawing closer to a terrible state of affairs as far as environment is concerned.

Thank you for your valuable comments!

Chitrangada Sharan (author) from New Delhi, India on June 29, 2015:

Thank you word55, for your lovely description of these charming birds in your area. I can visualize the beautiful site.

Appreciate your kind visit and comments. Thanks and have a good day!

Deb Hirt from Stillwater, OK on June 28, 2015:

Urban development will eventually remove birds from areas that they heavily populated. Trees are a necessity to our lives, too, as they produce oxygen through photosynthesis. When urban birds like the House Sparrow, the Red-tailed Hawk, and the Peregrine Falcon disappear, we are in a serious state of affairs.

Al Wordlaw from Chicago on June 27, 2015:

Hi chitrangadasharan, the lovely sparrow sounds off in my yard about 3 am in the mornings. I love their chirping. They like to wiggle in my grass when it is being watered. Then they move on up the street as daylight approaches. Thanks for sharing your appreciation of these lovely birds.