Number and distribution of tree (Passer montanus) and house (Passer domesticus) sparrows in the Magadan Region

Abstract

In recent decades, a reduction in the number of sparrows has been observed throughout their wide distribution range. However, information on the distribution and abundance of sparrows in Northeast Asia is scarce. Monospecific sparrow populations have been identified in various settlements and towns in the Magadan Region, although there are occasional records of other sparrow species. Among monospecific populations, only tree sparrows breed settlements on the Tauy Bay coast, in Magadan, Susuman, Verkhny Seimchan, and Omsukchan, whereas only house sparrows breed in Evensk, Seimchan, and Ust-Omchug. The tree sparrow population in Magadan was estimated to be 2750 individuals over an area of 9.6 km². Their population density in winter, estimated by plot counts, varied between 200 and 384 individuals/km² in parts of Magadan with different housing types. We conclude by discussing the ways in which tree and house sparrows may spread across the area.