Sparrows are a familiar presence and a bird we often encounter. Their small bodies and round shapes are truly adorable! They are approximately 15 cm in length and weigh between 18 to 30 grams. You can spot them almost anywhere in Japan, although it is said that they are not found in the Ogasawara Islands.
These little friends are very sociable and live energetically close to us. They are omnivorous, mainly eating seeds and insects. You can see them in various places such as rice fields, parks, and urban areas.
Sparrows are very active, and their characteristic “hopping” movement is adorable. They also enjoy bathing in water and dust, and they always seem to be busily moving around. However, they are a bit wary of humans and will quickly fly away if you get too close. It’s best to quietly observe them from a distance.
Especially, the morning chirping of sparrows is wonderful, as it seems to announce the start of a new day. They appear to chirp more energetically on sunny days, but they also chirp reliably even on cloudy days. However, on days with thick clouds, it becomes difficult for them to discern the timing of sunrise, so they may start chirping a bit later.
In winter, sparrows become even more charming. They puff up their bodies, becoming what is sometimes referred to as “puffed-up sparrows.” This adorable appearance, where they puff up their feathers to ward off the cold and make their bodies appear rounder, is heartwarming!
However, it is said that the number of sparrows has been decreasing in recent years. Changes in housing conditions and a decrease in food sources are believed to be the causes, but the details are not yet well understood. Sparrows are our precious neighbors. Let’s protect them together, starting with what we can do.
