Cape Sparrow
Passer melanurus
Least ConcernAves · Passeriformes · Passeridae
About
The Cape sparrow, or mossie, is a bird of the sparrow family Passeridae found in southern Africa. A medium-sized sparrow at 14–16 centimetres (5.5–6.3 in), it has distinctive plumage, including large pale head stripes in both sexes. Its plumage is mostly grey, brown, and chestnut, and the male has some bold black and white markings on its head and neck. The species inhabits semi-arid savannah, cultivated areas, and towns, and ranges from the central coast of Angola to eastern South Africa and Eswatini. Three subspecies are distinguished in different parts of its range.
Fun Fact
Away from settled areas it spends much of the year wandering nomadically, in flocks of up to 200 birds.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Range is Benguela in Angola, and it is found in the coastal and central parts of Namibia, except for the driest parts of the Namib Desert.
Diet
Eats seeds, foraging in trees and on the ground.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance