World Sparrow Day

Subject: Environment & Conservation, Important Days (UPSC Prelims, GS III)
Source: PIB

Context:

World Sparrow Day is observed every year on 20th March¹ to spread awareness about the declining sparrow population and the need for conservation efforts in urban and rural ecosystems.

About World Sparrow Day

• Celebrated globally since 2010, initiated by the Nature Forever Society (India) in collaboration with environmental groups worldwide.
• Now observed in 50+ countries.
• The House Sparrow is the State Bird of Delhi and Bihar, highlighting its cultural significance.
• Theme 2025: “A Tribute to Nature’s Tiny Messengers.”

Why Sparrows Matter

• Sparrows help maintain ecological balance by:
  • Seed dispersal
  • Insect control
  • Supporting biodiversity
• Their population is declining due to:
  • Rapid urbanization
  • Habitat loss
  • Modern building designs
  • Reduced food sources
  • Pollution
  • Changes in agricultural practices

Conservation Focus

• Promoting urban greening, nesting spaces, and community involvement.
• Encouraging agroecological and eco-friendly farming practices.
• Citizen initiatives like sparrow feeders, nest boxes, and reduced pesticide use.

Species Information

• House Sparrow (Passer domesticus):
  • Family: Passeridae
  • Order: Passeriformes
  • IUCN Status: Least Concern
  • Very social; often seen in small groups.

Common Sparrow & Sparrow-like Species in India

1. Question Reference
   (HPAS PYQ 2025) ↩︎