Just A Sparrow

Posted by chooper on June 9, 2005

Q: When does the male house sparrow fledgling get it's colourful feathers?

Thank you,

Charline

A: Charline:

If you're talking about a juvenile born this year it won't molt into its adult plumage for about four to six weeks after fledging.

Thereafter, the plumage is renewed annually by a molt that begins near the end of, or immediately following, the breeding season.

The height of molt in both juvenile and adult sparrows iusually comes in September in northeaster North America. But, this may be completely different on where you are on the planet. The house sparrow is one of the most widespread and abundant birds of the world.

Thanks for your question.

Jim Berry ( June 10, 2005)

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