Sparrows are pecking at the surface in dry soil—what are they eating?

Sparrows are pecking at the surface in dry soil—what are they eating? Sparrows do eat small amounts of “sand,” but this isn’t random—it serves a purpose. Sparrows don’t have teeth, so they will intentionally swallow tiny grains of sand or small pebbles. In biology, this is known as “grit-assisted digestion.” These particles enter a part of their digestive system called the gizzard, which works like a grinder. It helps break down hard foods such as seeds and grains, making them easier to digest and absorb.