In article , Douglas Douglas.1k
writes

We have Sparrows up here (West Central Scotland), and too does it
surprise me to learn that they are 'scarce'.

They are not 'scarce'.
But they have declined by a large proportion over the last 20 years or
so.
A big decline from a high starting point may not make a species scarce,
but it is still a cause for concern.

--
Kay
"Do not insult the crocodile until you have crossed the river"