People urged to act if they see sparrows in garden – or risk losing them

House Sparrows are one of the UK’s most widespread birds, but their breeding numbers have “drastically declined” since records beganAlex Evans Deputy Audience Editor and Maddy Baillie Content Editor

07:23, 26 Oct 2025Updated 07:23, 26 Oct 2025

House sparrows are now on the UK Red List for “high conservation concern”(Image: Nataba via Getty Images)

UK households are being encouraged to act if they spot sparrows in their gardens. House sparrows, one of the most frequently seen birds in UK gardens and outdoor spaces, have experienced a “drastic” decline, says the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.

In its recent Big Garden Birdwatch, which invites the public to report bird sightings in their gardens over time, house sparrow breeding numbers have “drastically declined” since records began. The birds are now on the UK Red List for “high conservation concern”.

The charity is now calling on people to assist these struggling birds by taking action in their gardens. It suggests allowing a section of the garden to grow wild during the summer to attract the insects that these birds rely on for survival.

The RSPB states: “House Sparrows are one of the UK’s most widespread birds. While they are often the most commonly spotted garden birds in Big Garden Birdwatch, sadly their breeding numbers have drastically declined since records began over the last 50 years.

“In 2002, House Sparrows were added to the UK Red List of birds of high conservation concern. Although there have been increases in some areas over the last decade, House Sparrows remain on the Red List.”, reports the Express.

The organisation has now stepped in to request gardeners to leave a patch of their lawn untouched to aid the birds.

The RSPB suggested: “One way to help garden birds is by encouraging insects. Why not let a patch of your garden grow wild this spring and summer? You’ll get a rest, and you’ll reap the rewards come Big Garden Birdwatch 2026.”

The RSPB further emphasises that these birds could be preserved if enough individuals take action.

They stated: “The problems faced by birds are many and varied, which means we need to take action in all sorts of areas. From gardening for wildlife to the way we farm and manage our rivers, it all impacts on nature. That’s why we work tirelessly to save, protect and fight for nature. And when we come together for nature, it works.”