Padda fuscata
The Timor Sparrow (*Padda fuscata*) is a petite, striking estrildid finch endemic to the Lesser Sunda Islands, primarily Timor and Rote. Measuring approximately 13-14 cm in length with a weight of 12-18 grams, its most distinctive features are its dusky brown body, contrasting black cap, and prominent white cheek patches, all complemented by a robust, conical pinkish-red bill. These field marks readily distinguish it from other small finches in its restricted range. Taxonomically, it belongs ...
This species favors open habitats including grasslands, savannas, scrublands, and cultivated areas, often near human settlements or water sources, typically found at elevations up to 1000 meters.
The diet of the Timor Sparrow consists predominantly of various grass seeds, particularly those of wild grasses and cultivated grains like rice, supplemented occasionally with small insects. Foraging occurs primarily by gleaning from the ground or plucking seeds directly from plant heads.
Timor Sparrows are highly gregarious birds, typically observed in flocks ranging from a dozen to over a hundred individuals outside the breeding season, often roosting communally in dense vegetation. They are diurnal foragers, primarily gleaning seeds from the ground, though they will also perch ...
The Timor Sparrow is strictly endemic to the Lesser Sunda Islands of Timor and Rote, found within both Indonesian West Timor and independent East Timor. It is a resident species throughout its range, exhibiting no migratory movements. Its distribution covers low to moderate elevations, generally ...
Near Threatened
- The Timor Sparrow is an island endemic, found naturally only on Timor and Rote, making it a highly localized species. - Despite its name, it's more closely related to the Java Sparrow (*Padda oryzivora*), sharing a genus that was once part of the larger *Lonchura* group. - Unlike many finches, ...