The northern grey-headed sparrow, also known as the grey-headed sparrow, is a species of bird in the sparrow family Passeridae, which is resident in much of tropical Africa. It occurs in a wide range of open habitats, including open woodlands and human habitation, often occupying the same niche as the house sparrow does in Eurasia.
Region
Tropical Africa
Typical Environment
Found from the Sahel and West Africa east to the Horn of Africa and into parts of East and Central Africa. It frequents open woodlands, savannas, farmlands, and urban and suburban areas where buildings provide nesting cavities. The species is highly tolerant of human presence and is common around gardens, markets, and grain stores. It avoids dense forest interiors but uses forest edges and clearings.
Altitude Range
0–2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The northern grey-headed sparrow is a common resident across much of tropical Africa, thriving in towns, villages, and open woodlands. It often fills the same niche in Africa that the house sparrow occupies in Eurasia, readily nesting in cavities around buildings. During breeding it increases insect intake to feed growing chicks. Its adaptability to human-altered landscapes has helped keep populations stable.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in small flocks outside the breeding season, feeding and roosting communally near human habitation. Pairs nest in cavities such as holes in buildings, tree hollows, or nest boxes, lining the nest with grasses and feathers. Clutch size is typically 2–5 eggs, and both sexes share incubation and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Simple, repetitive chirps and cheeps, often delivered from rooftops or exposed perches. Calls include sharp tchip notes and soft chatter in flocks.
