Breeding of the Sudan Golden Sparrow in southern Morocco finally confirmed.
La nidification du Moineau doré enfin confirmée dans le sud du Maroc.
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The Sudan Golden Sparrow (Passer luteus) was first recorded in Morocco in 2009, specifically in the Aousserd region. The primary observation site, which is the famed Oued Jenna, has since become known for annual sightings of the species, with additional records at various locations throughout the region. Although certain sightings in recent years suggested possible local breeding, conclusive evidence had yet to be documented—until now.
In October 2024, Patrick Bergier, Halima Bousadik, M’hamed Alifal, and Abdeljebbar Qninba discovered an active breeding colony of the Sudan Golden Sparrow. Located within an acacia woodland spanning approximately two hectares, the colony is in the early stages of breeding and comprises 95 nests.
Initial findings, including photographs, were shared in the following report, with a more detailed article to follow.
Reference:
Bergier, P., Bousadik, H., Alifal, M., & Qninba, A. 2024. Reproduction du Moineau doré Passer luteus dans le Sahara Atlantique Marocain. Eléments d’Ornithologie Marocaine: eom24101. 5 pp.
Good job,
I would like to be there. Thank you.