Sparrow Population by Species (2025 Global Breakdown)

Sparrows, small and resilient birds, are among the most widespread and recognizable avian species across the globe. With an estimated global population of approximately 1.4 billion, these birds are found in diverse habitats ranging from urban environments to rural landscapes. Sparrows belong to the family Passeridae, which encompasses around 50 different species. Despite their abundance, determining the exact population of each sparrow species presents significant challenges due to factors like their vast distribution, seasonal migrations, and similarities between species that make identification difficult. Understanding sparrow populations is crucial as it provides insights into biodiversity, ecological health, and the impacts of environmental changes on avian species.

Disclaimer: The data regarding sparrow populations is derived from various studies, observations, and estimates conducted by ornithologists and bird conservation organizations. While these figures offer a general understanding of sparrow populations, they are subject to variations due to the dynamic nature of bird populations, differences in data collection methodologies, and the inherent difficulty in surveying small, mobile species like sparrows. Therefore, the figures presented should be considered as estimates rather than exact counts.

Top 10 Most Populated Sparrow Species:

• House Sparrow: 500 – 1,500 million
• Eurasian Tree Sparrow: 200 – 300 million
• Chipping Sparrow: 200 – 300 million
• Song Sparrow: 200 – 300 million
• Northern Grey-headed Sparrow: 20 – 50 million
• Southern Grey-headed Sparrow: 20 – 50 million
• Spanish Sparrow: 10 – 20 million
• Italian Sparrow: 10 – 20 million
• Swainson’s Sparrow: 10 – 20 million
• Cape Sparrow: 10 – 20 million

The House Sparrow tops the list with an estimated population ranging from 500 to 1,500 million, making it one of the most common and adaptable bird species globally. Its ability to thrive in urban environments and its close association with human habitats contribute to its large numbers. Following closely are the Eurasian Tree Sparrow, Chipping Sparrow, and Song Sparrow, each with populations estimated between 200 and 300 million. These species are also widely distributed, with habitats that span various continents, including Asia, Europe, and North America.

The remaining species in the top ten list, such as the Northern and Southern Grey-headed Sparrows, Spanish Sparrow, and Cape Sparrow, have smaller but still significant populations. These species are often found in more localized regions, primarily in Africa and parts of Europe. Despite their smaller numbers compared to the House Sparrow, they play crucial roles in their respective ecosystems, contributing to the overall biodiversity and ecological balance.

Sparrows Population by Species (Full List)

FAQs

• How many sparrows are there in the world?
  • There are approximately 730 million sparrows globally across various species.

• Which sparrow species has the largest population?
  • The House Sparrow has the largest population, estimated between 500 and 1,500 million.

• How many types of sparrows are there?
  • There are around 50 different species of sparrows worldwide.

Learn more:

For detailed information and sources on sparrow populations and species, visit BirdLife International and The Cornell Lab of Ornithology.