Passeridae

Old World sparrows are small passerine birds in the family Passeridae, also known as true sparrows. They differ from New World sparrows and other birds with similar names. Many species nest in urban areas, especially the house and Eurasian tree sparrows, and primarily eat seeds, though they may consume small insects and scavenge for food.

These birds are typically small, plump, brown and grey, with short tails and strong beaks. Size varies among species, with the smallest being the chestnut sparrow and the largest the parrot-billed sparrow. Old World sparrows have unique adaptations for seed eating, such as specialized bills and an additional bone in the tongue.

Indigenous to Europe, Africa, and Asia, Old World sparrows have been introduced to the Americas and Australia. They thrive in open habitats like grasslands and deserts, with some species living in urban areas. They are social birds, often found in loose colonies or flocks, except for the solitary great sparrow. They roost in large groups for cover, with some gatherings reaching up to 10,000 individuals.

These sparrows engage in dust bathing, first scratching a hole and flinging dirt over themselves, and they also bathe in water. These activities are social, often involving many birds at once, followed by preening and group singing.