Tree Sparrow
Passer montanus
Tap image to enlarge · Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Tree Sparrow has declined by 93% in the UK since 1970 — one of the most severe declines of any British bird. Where once they were common farmland birds, they now survive in scattered pockets where food and nesting habitat remain. The farmland around Hesketh Bank and Banks on the Sefton Coast holds small numbers. Different from House Sparrow — both sexes have the rich chestnut-brown cap and the black cheek spot is the key feature.
At a Glance
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passeridae |
| Habitat | Farmland with old hedgerow trees · Field margins · Scrubby woodland edge |
| Diet | Seeds, grain, invertebrates in summer |
| UK population | Around 200,000 pairs; red-listed due to 93% decline since 1970 |
| Sefton Coast | Small, local populations on farmland behind the sea wall — declining |
| Conservation | UK Red List |
Where to See It
Farmland edges around Hesketh Bank and Banks. Any site with old hedgerow trees and nearby seed.
Identification
Like House Sparrow but smaller. Chestnut-brown cap (not grey as male House Sparrow). Clear black cheek spot on white cheek. Male and female look identical (House Sparrow female is drab). Smaller bill.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Check farmland hedgerows around Hesketh Bank. Any sparrow with a chestnut-brown cap and black cheek spot is a Tree Sparrow. They tend to be in small flocks with House Sparrows.
Conservation Status
UK Red List
This species is on the UK Red List for Birds (BoCC5), indicating serious concern about its population decline or unfavourable conservation status. Monitoring this species on the Sefton Coast contributes to national population tracking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has the Tree Sparrow declined so dramatically?
The Tree Sparrow's 93% decline since 1970 is one of the most severe of any UK bird. The primary causes are changes in agricultural practice — herbicides eliminating arable weed seeds (their winter food), loss of mixed farming, autumn sowing replacing spring crops (removing stubble feeding opportunities) and modern grain storage reducing spillage. Conservation measures including winter seed plots and nest boxes have helped stabilise or increase some local populations.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.