Description Males plumage is rather smart with grey crown, white cheeks and black bib. For years we objected to the permanent resident flock in our garden taking more than a fair share of food during the winter. But now weeks pass without a single example putting in an appearance. A springtime hazard was an unexplained liking for destroying flowers especially yellow primroses and crocuses. Dust-bathing in new seedbeds has been a further irritation.
House sparrows can rear three broods in a season.
Fresh eggs have been known at Christmas and late in August. Before the rightful owners arrive the old nests of house martins are taken over. Sand martins also suffer. I have recorded in a sandpit almost every burrow stuffed with straw belonging to sparrows. The bulky foundations of rooks' and herons' nests also provide desirable sites.