


Extremely common throughout the world, sparrows live in close proximity to humans. House sparrows are not native to North America, and their presence adds to the decline of native bird populations. Sparrows regularly take up residence in and around manmade buildings, which contributes to noise pollution as well as various health hazards that result from their droppings.


Small and plump, sparrows have a wingspan of about 8 inches (20 cm). Their plumage is shades of gray and brown along the length of the body. About 6 inches (15 cm) long, house sparrow males have distinctive white bands across their necks and cheeks, as well as black coloration that begins on the front of the neck and continues up and around the eyes. Females are dully colored and approximately the same size as males.


House sparrows prefer the easy access to food that humans provide, so they commonly nest nearly anywhere humans are present, including suburbs, cities, and farms. Residents of both the United States and Canada deal with house sparrows daily. The birds are non-migratory and generally stray no more than 3.5 miles (6 km) from their birth sites.


Are sparrows known to enter homes or yards?
Sparrows readily build nests in and around manmade structures. They can frequently be found in house eaves and damaged holes that accommodate nests. With such small bodies, sparrows can fit into openings as tiny as three-fourths of an inch (2 cm) in diameter. Sparrows are hostile and force other bird species from their nests, which results in the displacement of native birds.


Do sparrows harm people or property?
Initially brought from overseas to keep insects from interfering with agricultural production, house sparrows were soon eating the very crops they were supposed to be protecting. As pests to farmers, sparrows also make their way into livestock food and water supplies, which contaminates both. Due to the ability of birds to transmit diseases like histoplasmosis and salmonellosis, both livestock and humans are in danger of contracting serious illnesses if they come into contact with sparrow droppings. Typically, the birds do not harm humans directly, although they are known to swoop if they feel their offspring are being threatened.

Control and Safety

To prevent sparrows from overtaking properties and causing unwanted damage, possible roosting and nesting sites should be reduced. Protect bare skin and lungs when removing sparrow droppings to reduce chances of disease contraction. If possible, limiting favored food sources will also work to dispel the pests.

Trapping and Removal

While it is possible to trap and remove sparrows, doing so without an integrated approach, which includes the implementation of prevention tactics, will only be effective in the short term. Over time, the birds will reclaim their positions. Contacting a Critter Control wildlife professional is a surefire way to get on the path to complete sparrow removal.
