The House Sparrow is one of the most widespread and adaptable bird species globally, thriving in nearly every habitat except true deserts. In Qatar, it is a familiar year-round resident, known for its close association with human settlements and its noisy, social behavior. Its success is attributed to its tolerance of human disturbance and omnivorous diet. Habitat & Behavior Preferred Habitats: Found in a wide range of environments, including gardens, cultivation areas, palm groves, reed beds, desert camps, and rocky outcrops in the open desert. Frequently observed in urban areas like the Doha Corniche, often on paving or grass. Nesting: Builds untidy nests of grass, plastic, and other materials on building ledges, roof spaces, and ruined houses. Commonly nests in abandoned villages such as Al Suwaiya near Al Khor or Al Jemail on the northwest coast. Behavior: Highly social, typically forming noisy flocks. They spend much time on the ground foraging for seeds, insects, and food scraps left by humans. At dusk, large groups gather in date palms, chirping noisily before settling for the night. Dust bathing is a common behavior. Appearance & Physical Characteristics Male: Grey crown, black bib, chestnut nape, and streaked brown upperparts. Female: Plain brownish-grey plumage with no distinctive markings. Juveniles: Resemble females but may appear slightly paler. Call The House Sparrow is highly vocal, producing constant chirping sounds, especially when in groups. This continuous chatter often signals their presence before they are seen. Size and Comparison The House Sparrow is a small, stocky bird. Males are more striking with bold patterns, while females have a simpler, muted appearance. Despite their small size, they are easily noticeable due to their lively movements and flocking behavior. Seasonal Presence The House Sparrow is a year-round resident in Qatar, present in urban and rural areas throughout all seasons. This bird's adaptability, sociable nature, and connection to human habitats make it one of the most recognized and commonly observed birds in Qatar.