Why are robins struggling in UK gardens?

Robins, a charismatic winter bird, need to fiercely protect their territorial patches in order to survive the bleak midwinter conditions.

How much have house sparrow numbers declined in the UK?

According to RSPB research, house sparrow populations in the UK dropped by as much as 71% between 1977 and 2008.

Home / Environment / Robins and Sparrows Face Tough Times in UK Gardens as Numbers Decline

Robins and Sparrows Face Tough Times in UK Gardens as Numbers Decline

Q: What factors are contributing to the decline of house sparrows in the UK?

Experts attribute the sparrow decline to less availability of food, the impacts of climate change and pollution, the loss of nesting sites, and even the introduction of unleaded petrol.

10 Nov

•

Summary

Robins are a beloved winter bird in UK gardens, but need to protect their territory
House sparrow numbers have declined by up to 71% between 1977 and 2008
Factors like less food, climate change, and loss of nesting sites contribute to sparrow decline

Robins and Sparrows Face Tough Times in UK Gardens as Numbers Decline

As of November 10th, 2025, the UK's beloved robin and house sparrow populations are facing significant challenges. Garden experts warn that robins, easily recognizable by their iconic red breasts, are having a tough time in the bleak midwinter as they fiercely defend their territorial patches to survive.

Meanwhile, the house sparrow, once a ubiquitous and friendly presence in British gardens, has seen a dramatic decline in numbers. According to RSPB research, house sparrow populations dropped by as much as 71% between 1977 and 2008. Experts attribute this to a range of factors, including less availability of food, the impacts of climate change and pollution, the loss of nesting sites, and even the introduction of unleaded petrol, which they say produces toxic compounds.