World Sparrow Day 2026: Different types of sparrows in India and where to find them

Every year on March 20 , World Sparrow Day is celebrated by putting the spotlight back on a bird species that has been living alongside humans for centuries. However, when we talk of sparrows in India, we are not talking of the common chirping sounds we hear outside our windows. We are talking of a variety of species of birds adapted to living in vastly different climates, from the concrete jungle of cities to the parched earth of the desert, from the farms of the plains to the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.
India is home to a variety of species of sparrows, and while we celebrate World Sparrow Day, we might as well look at the places where they are found in India.

One of India's most iconic birds, the House sparrow is inextricably linked with everyday life in India's cities and villages. It is found in large numbers in India's cities, from Delhi and Mumbai to Punjab and Tamil Nadu. It was commonly found in close association with human settlements, nesting on rooftops, ventilators, and old structures. However, rapid urbanization has significantly impacted its living space. The rise of glass buildings, loss of green spaces, and environmental pollution have contributed significantly to its decline in India's cities. Yet, there is some hope for this bird too. Public awareness programs and the construction of nesting boxes have helped this bird make a comeback in some areas.

While not as well-known as its cousin, the House Sparrow, the Sind Sparrow is another fascinating bird found in India. Found in India's dry zones, this slightly smaller cousin of the House Sparrow is easily identified by its chestnut-colored shoulder patches and its overall grey-brown plumage, which makes it almost invisible in its surroundings. The Sind Sparrow is found in western India, particularly in Gujarat and Rajasthan.

The Russet Sparrow thrives in the cool and hilly areas of North India, including Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Unlike its counterparts in urban areas, the Russet Sparrow prefers to reside in wooded areas, orchards, and villages in the hills. Its population is stable because its habitat has not been altered as significantly as that of the urban areas

The Eurasian tree sparrow, although not as prominent as the House sparrow, is another species of sparrow that prefers to reside in quiet areas with open spaces. These sparrows are commonly found in the agricultural areas of Punjab, Haryana, and Northeast India. The Eurasian Tree Sparrow prefers to reside in areas that are away from urban areas and near farmlands where food is readily available.

With its striking markings and appearance, the Spanish Sparrow is one of the more visually interesting species of sparrows found in India. The male of the species is particularly notable due to the chestnut coloration of the top of the head and the heavily streaked underparts. The species is found mainly in the northern areas of India, particularly in the states of Jammu and Kashmir. It is often found in the open fields, wetlands, and areas around water bodies. The Spanish Sparrow is often found in flocks and is an active forager.

The Yellow-throated Sparrow, also referred to as the Chestnut-shouldered Petronia, is notable due to the bright yellow throat patch and active behavior. The species is found across the central and southern India, and also in several places across Karnataka and Maharashtra. The species is often found across scrublands, open woods, and areas of agriculture like paddy fields.