The bird that closely resembles a sparrow but is twice the size is the dunnock, also known as the hedge sparrow or hedge accentor. Despite its common name, the dunnock is not actually a member of the sparrow family. Instead, it belongs to the Accentor group, specifically the Prunella genus, within the Prunellidae family.
The dunnock is a small bird with a plump body, similar to that of a sparrow. It measures around 14-15 centimeters in length, making it noticeably larger than most sparrows, which typically range from 11-14 centimeters in length. This size difference becomes even more apparent when the dunnock is seen alongside other birds.
In terms of appearance, the dunnock has a brownish-gray plumage with streaks and mottling on its back. Its underparts are paler, often tinged with a warm buff color. The male and female dunnocks have a similar appearance, with subtle differences in color intensity. They both have a slender bill, which is well-suited for their insectivorous diet.
I have had the opportunity to observe dunnocks in my own backyard, and their distinct size and features never fail to catch my attention. They are often seen hopping on the ground, searching for insects and seeds to feed on. Their behavior is somewhat similar to sparrows, as they are ground feeders and tend to forage in shrubs and hedgerows.
One interesting behavior of the dunnock is its tendency to engage in polygynandry, a mating system where both males and females have multiple mates. This behavior sets them apart from many other bird species, including sparrows. Male dunnocks may defend territories and mate with multiple females, while females may also mate with multiple males. This complex social structure adds another layer of intrigue to this bird’s already fascinating nature.
To summarize, the dunnock is a bird that closely resembles a sparrow but is approximately twice its size. It is commonly known as the hedge sparrow or hedge accentor, although it is not a true sparrow. The dunnock belongs to the Accentor group (Prunella genus) within the Prunellidae family. Its larger size, brownish-gray plumage, and ground-feeding behavior distinguish it from sparrows. The dunnock’s unique mating system, known as polygynandry, adds to its captivating nature.