Passer montanus

We are lucky enough to live in an area which still has Tree Sparrows. In fact they are generally more common at our feeders than House Sparrows. I haven't seen a House Sparrow at the feeders for weeks until two males today. On the other hand in the depths of the winter of 2012 - 13 I had 15 Tree Sparrows on the bird table at once.

However Tree Sparrows (as well as House Sparrows) are in serious decline. The British breeding range has declined over the last 40 years by just over 40%. However the Irish population has increased by 71% in the last 30 years.

This is a shot taken through the living room window and at full zoom, so not of the best quality. I was pleased to get the shot because at this time of year the numbers visiting the feeding station drop off as they forage in the countryside round us and begin to breed.