The Socotra sparrow is a passerine bird endemic to the islands of Socotra, Samhah, and Darsah in the Indian Ocean, off the Horn of Africa. The taxonomy of this species and its relatives is complex, with some authorities, including BirdLife International, recognising this species and the very similar Abd al-Kuri sparrow, as well as several from mainland Africa, as separate, and others lumping all these species and the probably unrelated Iago sparrow.
Region
Socotra Archipelago, northwestern Indian Ocean
Typical Environment
Occurs across Socotra and the smaller islands of Samhah and Darsah in arid to semi-arid landscapes. It frequents coastal plains, rocky slopes, wadis with scattered shrubs, and agricultural plots. The species is often seen in and around settlements, palm groves, and gardens where water and seed resources are available. Nests are placed in crevices, buildings, or dense shrubs and palms.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This island sparrow is confined to the Socotra Archipelago (Socotra, Samhah, and Darsah) off the Horn of Africa. Its taxonomy is complex and has been variously split or lumped with similar sparrows from nearby islands and mainland Africa. It readily uses human-modified habitats and can be common around villages and oases. Despite its small range, it is not currently considered at risk.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often in small flocks outside the breeding season, foraging on the ground and in low shrubs. Breeding pairs are typically monogamous and nest in cavities, building crevices, or dense vegetation. Nesting activity tends to align with periods of increased rainfall when food is abundant.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of simple chirps and cheeps, delivered from exposed perches. Males give lively, chattering notes during courtship and territory advertisement.
Plumage
Sandy-brown upperparts with darker streaking and pale, cleaner underparts; texture is smooth with fine streaks on the back. Males show a darker throat patch and more contrasted head pattern, while females are duller and more uniformly buff-brown.
Diet
Eats a mix of grass seeds, grains, and small invertebrates such as insects and spiders. During breeding it takes more animal prey to feed nestlings. It also gleans food scraps around human habitation and may peck at fruits or buds opportunistically.
Preferred Environment
Forages on open ground, along track edges, and among low shrubs and palms. Frequently feeds around villages, livestock areas, and water points where seeds and insects concentrate.
