Have you seen this bird?

Last Updated on Tuesday, 31 March 2009 17:12 Written by Administrator Thursday, 05 March 2009 22:29

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Tree Sparrow sightings

treesparrow_on_feeder

Between the 1970s and 1990s Tree sparrow populations crashed by up to 95%.  Today, this species is showing good signs of recovery in many parts of the Country – but not Hampshire.  In fact, experts believe the tree sparrow may already be extinct in Hampshire as a breeding species – but no-one is absolutely sure.  In November 2007, the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG) and the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust joined forces to launch an appeal for any sightings that farmers, gamekeepers or the general public might have seen over the winter and spring months.

The response was tremendous, and although many of the sightings followed up turned out to be either house sparrows or dunnocks, we were still able to confirm at least two separate sightings of tree sparrows and identify a number of common  ‘clusters’ across the county.  One such ‘cluster’ was not that far from Clanfield, with potential sightings noted at Hambeldon and Fareham and one sighting confirmed in Meonstoke. 

In both instances where sightings were confirmed, the birds were recorded on bird feeders, in small groups of approximately 2-4 birds.  The first confirmed tree sparrows spotted (see photograph opposite) are known to originate from Wiltshire – due to a colour coded ring noted.  With some encouragement – primarily through supplementary feeding (bird tables, grain hoppers, spreading tail end grain etc.) - we are hopeful that these birds may stay in the local vicinity and breed. 

HOW TO IDENTIFY A TREE SPARROW

 

treesparrow

Tree sparrow

housesparrow

 

 

House sparrow

 

Tree sparrows are quite similar to their close cousins the House sparrow, but have some key differences to help you identify them. The male Tree sparrow has a reddish brown chocolate coloured cap to its head, whereas the male House sparrow has a grey cap.  Male Tree sparrows also have a very distinctive pure white side to their heads with a big black cheek patch, whereas male House sparrow have dusky grey sides to their heads with no cheek patch.

We are still keen to receive records of tree sparrows noted over the coming months so please do keep a look out for tree sparrows in your local area and indeed on your bird tables at home. Should you be lucky enough to spot one, we would love to hear about it so that we can help this once common bird re-establish itself again in Hampshire.  A photograph if at all possible is ideal as it aids the identification process.  Contact Debbie Miller of the Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG) – This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 07713333179.   

By Debbie Miller

Farm Conservation Adviser (FWAG)