A resident bird of Cyprus and the Akamas. It’s very common in cities, in villages, animal farms and less in rural areas. It is probably the most connected bird species with humans and their presence.

Its seen in yards, gardens, roofs of houses, usually in small groups. It often moves on the ground in search of food, with the characteristic hops it makes instead of walking. At the first sense of danger, it immediately flies to a tree or building where it feels safe.

It nests in holes on walls, under tiles and in many other natural or artificial places with holes or cavities, with nests that it makes internally by gathering plant material (grasses). It feeds on seeds, fruits and insects, and often exploits human food scraps.

It is a robust bird, with a broad body, a fairly large head and a strong beak. It shows sexual dimorphism, meaning males differ in appearance from females. The male is dark brown with black streaks on the back, a grey crown on the middle head that reaches the nape, black around the eye, a black patch on the throat (which reaches the breast in the breeding season), grey underparts and whitish-grey cheeks.

The female is duller in coloration, with faded brown and black streaks on the back, very pale brown head and a beige brow behind the eye, dull greyish white below.