Passer flaveolus
The Plain-backed Sparrow, *Passer flaveolus*, is a charming member of the Old World sparrow family, Passeridae, instantly recognizable for its distinctive unstreaked, plain brown back contrasting with bright yellow underparts. Measuring approximately 13-15 cm (5.1-5.9 in) in length with a weight typically ranging from 18-25 grams, it presents a compact and robust form characteristic of the genus. Key field marks include its grey crown, a prominent black loral stripe extending through the eye,...
Primarily found in open woodlands, cultivated fields, urban gardens, and around human settlements, often at low to moderate elevations. It thrives in disturbed habitats and prefers areas with scattered trees and shrubs for nesting and roosting.
Primarily granivorous, feeding on a wide variety of seeds from grasses and cultivated crops, supplemented significantly with insects, especially during the breeding season and for feeding nestlings. Forages mainly by gleaning from the ground or vegetation.
The Plain-backed Sparrow is a highly gregarious species, often observed foraging in small to large flocks, particularly outside the breeding season, sometimes mixing with other passerine species. Diurnal, they spend their days actively searching for food, both on the ground and in vegetation, emp...
The Plain-backed Sparrow is a widespread resident across much of mainland Southeast Asia and parts of the Sunda Islands. Its breeding and year-round range extends from Myanmar and southern China (specifically Yunnan province) eastward through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. It is also a co...
Least Concern
- The Plain-backed Sparrow is one of the few *Passer* species that exhibits very subtle sexual dimorphism, making it challenging for birders to distinguish males from females in the field. - Despite its 'Plain-backed' name, its most striking feature is its vibrant yellow underparts, which stand o...