Sparrow

Actual Size: 5” to 6”

Characteristics: Brown stripes; black throat and chest patch; light cheeks

Habitat: Often build nests on building gutters, lamp poles, ledges, and more.

Habits:

  • The most abundant songbird pest.
  • Transmits diseases which affect humans, pets and livestock.
  • Aggressively defends their nests, often pushing out other desirable songbird species.

Sparrows in Puerto Rico

Sparrows are an invasive species found throughout the United States and are one of the most abundant songbird pests in the world. House sparrows are small birds that can create big issues. Both sparrows and their droppings can carry pathogens that are harmful to humans. Tough, adaptable, and aggressive, sparrows can survive in city neighborhoods and in rural areas, where it may evict native birds from their nests. These birds build messy nests, and are largely dependent on humans for both food resources and nesting sites. Sparrows are implicated in the transmission of over 25 diseases to humans, pets and livestock.

Sparrow Habitat

Sparrows are especially attracted to man-made structures because they usually offer numerous safe spaces to build nests with many potential food options. Nests are composed of twigs, grass, paper, and string, and are built in gutters, vents, soffits, lamp poles, on rafters, building ledges, and almost any conceivable elevated, sheltered spot. Their nests are often hot spots for bugs and parasites that can make their way into buildings. In addition, in some areas, sparrow nests can create fire hazards.

Sparrow Behaviors, Threats or Dangers

Sparrows love to stuff their nesting materials into tiny gaps – the perfect size is about 1 to 3 inches. This can include the framework of structures, letters of signs, corrugated overhangs, and even dryer vents. Around homes, gutters and drainage pipes clogged with sparrow nests often back up, which can cause extensive water damage. Nests built in chimneys and ventilation systems can block air flow and spread diseases through the system. Sparrows can crowd other birds at feeders and birdbaths, and as they aggressively defend their nests, they often push out other desirable songbird species, such as bluebirds.

If you are dealing with sparrows nesting on your San Juan or Ponce property, it’s important to always contact a licensed bird control expert for help.