The Desert Sparrow (Passer simplex) is found in desert and sandy areas of northern and central Africa (Passer simplex saharae), and also in areas of Iran and Russia as the Asian Desert Sparrow (Passer simplex zarudnyi).

The Desert Sparrow is not afraid to come near humans and sometimes builds nests in muddy walls. The Mozabite Berbers build their homes with holes in the walls to welcome these birds, which they call "bar-rode," and if one sings all day in the house, they say this is a sign of good news. The Tuareg, who call the bird "moula-moula," also say that this bird brings good news when it comes to stay near the camp.

This sparrow is becoming scarcer.