The Kenya sparrow, also known as the Kenya rufous sparrow, is a sparrow found in Kenya and Tanzania. It tends to be found in dry wooded savannah and agricultural areas. Some authorities have lumped the great sparrow (P. motitensis), the Kenya sparrow, and the Socotra sparrow (P. insularis) into P. motitensis following Dowsett and Forbes-Watson (1993). Some authorities also lump Shelley's sparrow and the Kordofan sparrow with this species, or all three with the great sparrow.
Region
East Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs mainly in Kenya and adjacent northern Tanzania, favoring dry wooded savanna, acacia scrub, and open farmland. It frequents field edges, villages, and pastoral areas where grain and water are available. The species uses scattered trees and buildings for nesting, and forages on the ground and in low vegetation. It tolerates semi-arid conditions and benefits from low-intensity agriculture.
Altitude Range
500–2600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the Kenya rufous sparrow, it inhabits dry savanna and agricultural mosaics in Kenya and northern Tanzania. Taxonomically it belongs to the rufous sparrow complex; some authorities have lumped it with the great sparrow and Socotra sparrow. It readily associates with human settlements and farmsteads, often forming small flocks outside the breeding season.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often in pairs during breeding and small flocks the rest of the year. Nests in cavities, eaves, or dense shrubs, sometimes loosely colonial. Both sexes participate in nest-building and provisioning, with insect prey especially important for nestlings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a simple series of bright, repetitive chirps delivered from exposed perches. Calls include sharp cheeps and chattering notes used to keep contact within flocks.
