Bearded Reedling
Image: lappuggla (cc-by-nc)
NameBearded Reedling
Common NameBearded Reedling
Scientific NamePanurus biarmicus
FamilyPanuridae
Wingspan (cm)17
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)14.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a pale grey head with striking black moustachial stripes extending from the eye. The back and wings are warm buff-orange, and the underparts are whitish to pale buff. The tail is long and graduated, reddish-brown. Females are duller, lacking the grey head and black moustaches, with a more uniform buff-brown plumage.
Vocalization / CallA distinctive, metallic, pinging 'psching' or 'twing' sound, often given in flight or from within reedbeds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsreedbeds, marshes, wetlands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across temperate Europe and Asia, primarily in areas with extensive reedbeds. Resident in many parts of its range, but northern and eastern populations may be migratory.
Identifying Featuresgrey head (male), black moustachial stripes (male), long, graduated tail, warm buff plumage, reedbed habitat, metallic 'ping' call
Description
A small, distinctive passerine bird with a long tail, typically found in extensive reedbeds. Males are particularly striking with their grey heads and prominent black 'moustaches'. They are agile climbers, often clinging to reed stems to feed.
