Wildlife

Tree Sparrow: Local Extinction and Slow Recovery

The tree sparrow suffered catastrophic losses in the 1990s but targeted conservation is beginning to help the species recover.

Key Facts

UK tree sparrow populations fell by 95 percent between 1970 and 2008
Recovery projects focusing on nest boxes and winter feeding have helped local populations
Tree sparrows nest colonially and compete with house sparrows in urban areas
They feed on seeds, grain, and invertebrates and need both habitats near each other
Tree sparrows can be distinguished from house sparrows by a chestnut crown and black spot on white cheek

Welfare Considerations

Tree sparrows require high-quality farmland habitat with a mix of arable weeds, grain, and suitable nest sites. Even with nest boxes, populations collapse if food quality is poor. Birds can suffer from avian diseases when crowding occurs at supplementary feeders. Cold wet springs reduce invertebrate availability affecting chick survival.

What You Can Do

Erect tree sparrow nest boxes in clusters as the species is colonial
Provide supplementary food in winter using grain and millet mixes
Support tree sparrow recovery projects run by local Wildlife Trusts
Join local monitoring schemes that track nest box occupancy and chick success
Encourage nearby landowners to reduce herbicide use to allow weed growth for food