The Italian sparrow, also known as the cisalpine sparrow, is a passerine bird of the sparrow family Passeridae, found in Italy and other parts of the Mediterranean region. In appearance, it is intermediate between the house sparrow, and the Spanish sparrow, a species of the Mediterranean and Central Asia closely related to the house sparrow. The Italian sparrow occurs in northern Italy and neighbouring regions, with intermediates with the house sparrow in a very narrow contact zone in the Alps, a slow gradation in appearance from the Italian to Spanish sparrows across central and southern Italy, and more birds of intermediate appearance in Malta, Crete, and other parts of the Mediterranean.
Region
Central Mediterranean and Southern Europe
Typical Environment
Primarily found across Italy, including the Alps’ southern slopes, Sicily, and some central Mediterranean islands where intermediate forms occur. It thrives in towns, villages, farms, orchards, and open countryside with hedgerows and scattered trees. The species avoids dense, unbroken forests but readily occupies suburban parks and historic city centers. It often nests in loose colonies on buildings and cliffs, using cavities and crevices.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Italian sparrow shows features intermediate between the house and Spanish sparrows, with males bearing a chestnut crown and a neat black bib but largely unstreaked underparts. It is closely associated with human settlements, nesting in eaves, walls, and other cavities. Genetic studies suggest a hybrid-origin history, yet it behaves ecologically as a distinct, stable species across much of Italy.
Eggs
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often forms loose colonies around buildings and farmsteads. Pairs are typically monogamous for a season, with 2–3 broods in spring and summer. Nests are built in cavities, eaves, or among roof tiles, lined with grasses and feathers.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Males give a series of bright, repetitive chirps and cheeps from prominent perches. Calls include sharp chup notes and softer twittering, especially near nests. The song is simple but persistent during the breeding season.
Plumage
Male with chestnut crown, white cheeks, black bib, streaked brown mantle, and largely plain greyish underparts; female is brown and streaked with a pale supercilium and plain underparts.
Diet
Feeds mainly on seeds and grains, taking weed seeds, cereal spillage, and crumbs around human habitation. Insects and other invertebrates are important in spring and summer, especially for nestlings. It will also consume buds, small fruits, and food scraps in urban areas. Opportunistic feeding at outdoor cafes and farmyards is common.
Preferred Environment
Forages on the ground in streets, farm tracks, and field margins, and among low vegetation. Often feeds near livestock, grain stores, and spilled grain at threshing areas. In urban settings, it frequents parks, courtyards, and marketplace edges.
