Bearded Reedling
NameBearded Reedling
Common NameBearded Reedling
Scientific NamePanurus biarmicus
FamilyPanuridae
Wingspan (cm)17
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)13.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a pale grey head with distinctive black 'moustaches' extending from the eye, a buff-brown back, and a long, graduated tail. The underparts are whitish with a pinkish tinge on the flanks. Females lack the black moustaches and have a duller, more uniform brown head and upperparts. Both sexes have an orange-yellow bill.
Vocalization / CallA distinctive, metallic 'ping' or 'psching' call, often given in flight or when moving through dense reeds. It can also produce a soft 'tew' sound.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsreedbeds, marshes, wetlands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across temperate Europe and Asia, from the Iberian Peninsula eastwards to China. It is largely resident but can undertake short-distance dispersal.
Identifying Featureslong tail, grey head (male), black moustachial stripes (male), buff-brown body, orange bill, reedbed habitat
Description
The Bearded Reedling is a small, long-tailed passerine bird typically found in extensive reedbeds. Males are distinguished by their striking grey head and prominent black moustachial stripes, while females have a more subdued brown head.
