Common Sparrows to Texas

There are many species of sparrow throughout the world, and several common to Texas. These birds have powerful beaks, and their diet consists of seeds, small invertebrates and crumbs. Sparrows feed and fly in small flocks and nest closely to one another. They commonly build their nests under roofs and bridges or in tree hollows. When predators chase a sparrow, they can swim to escape the danger.

  1. Chipping Sparrow

    • The chipping sparrow has a bright cap on its head that makes it easy to identify as an adult. The bird sings loudly, and likes to dwell in trees and grassy openings. The chipping sparrow has a smaller bill than most sparrow species, and is slender with a long tail. These sparrows also have a pale face, black line through each eye and a frosty colored underside. You will often see these sparrows feeding on the ground, or singing while on the top of evergreen trees.

    Olive Sparrow

    • The olive sparrow is in the Emberizidae family, and is also referred to as the green finch or Texas sparrow. The sparrow is 5 1/2 to 6 inches long and has an olive colored back, a brown streak in its eyes, white belly feathers, a striped crown and a buff breast. The olive sparrow does not migrate, and lives in thickets, chaparral and undergrowth near forests. When the male bird sings, it does not sound very musical.

    Savannah Sparrow

    • The Savannah sparrow is in the Passerculus family, and has a larger bill than most sparrows. The sparrow has dark streaks on its back, a white underside, a black breast and a white crown with stripes on it. The Savannah sparrow has several subspecies, identified by different darkness levels of the plumage. The birds dwell on low ground or in bushes, and have a diet of seeds and insects. When breeding, the sparrows stay together in family groups or in pairs. In winter, they flock together and migrate.

    House Sparrow

    • The house sparrow is very widespread and abundant throughout the world, and is common in Texas. On average, the bird's wingspan is 6 inches, its length 9 inches and it weighs 1 oz. This species of sparrow usually stays in a small area throughout its life, and only flies to find a place to feed. The house sparrow is territorial in defending its surroundings, and lays eggs during spring and summer months.