Five species of sparrows, weavers, and finches belonging to the Ploceidae, Fringillidae, and Emberizidae were examined cytogenetically by G- and C-banding. There was significant G-band homology between the families, with pericentric inversions being the principal form of chromosome change both at the intra- and inter-specific levels. In some instances there was more homology between species from different families than there was between species within a family. Possible explanations for this phenomenon are discussed.Key words: chromosome banding, inversion polymorphism, Passeriformes, Aves.