This Eurasian species was released in the St. Louis area in 1870. Upperparts are reddish-brown with black streaks and two small white wing bars. A white collar separates the rufous crown from the back. The face is mostly white, with a black spot on the auriculars, black lores, and a black throat. Underparts are whitish with a rufous wash on the sides and flanks. Sexes are similar. Juveniles slightly paler overall with yellowish base to the black bill.

Length: 14 (cm) Wingspan: 23 (cm)

Habitat:

Usually found near human habitation, parks, farms, wood lots.

Behavior:

Nests in natural and man-made cavities. Does not compete well against larger House Sparrow for nest sites.

Feeding:

Eats seeds, grain, insects, fruit, and buds.