The Abd al-Kuri sparrow is a passerine bird endemic to the small island of Abd al Kuri. The sparrows are located primarily in the Socotra archipelago of the Indian Ocean, in Yemen, which is off the Horn of Africa. Their environment consists of shrubland and rocky areas with inland cliffs and mountain peaks. Though this species was originally described as a distinct species, it was considered conspecific with the Socotra sparrow. The sparrow is also referred to by its English name, Abd al-Kuri, or its Dutch, Middle Name, Abd al-Kuri Mus. A study by Guy Kirwan suggested that there are differences between the Abd al-Kuri sparrow and the Socotra sparrow. On the evidence that it is morphologically distinct, BirdLife International recognised it as a species, and it was listed in the IOC World Bird List from December 2009. It has a restricted distribution, and a population of under 1,000 individuals.
Region
Socotra Archipelago, northwest Indian Ocean
Typical Environment
The species is confined to Abd al Kuri, a small, arid island with rocky plateaus, inland cliffs, and sparse shrubland. It occupies open rocky slopes, wadis, and coastal plains where low shrubs and grasses provide cover and foraging sites. Birds may occur around small settlements and livestock areas where seed resources are concentrated. Nests are placed in shrubs, rock crevices, or low bushes, taking advantage of sheltered microhabitats to avoid heat and wind.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 650 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Once treated as conspecific with the Socotra sparrow, it is now recognized as a distinct species by BirdLife International and the IOC (since 2009). It is confined to the tiny island of Abd al Kuri in the Socotra Archipelago of Yemen and likely numbers fewer than 1,000 individuals. Its extremely restricted range makes it vulnerable to habitat degradation and climatic extremes.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in small groups outside the breeding season, foraging and moving between shrubs and rocky outcrops. Pairs likely form monogamous bonds during breeding, with nests placed in shrubs or rock crevices and lined with grasses. They show moderate site fidelity around favored foraging and nesting patches.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A simple, sparrow-like series of chirps and short trills delivered from low perches. Contact calls are sharp chips used to keep cohesion in small groups.
