Bearded Reedling
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 prominent black moustachial stripes, a yellowish-orange bill, tawny-orange body, white throat, and black undertail coverts. Females are duller, lacking the black moustaches, with a browner head and more uniform tawny plumage. Both sexes have a long, graduated tawny tail.
Vocalization / CallA distinctive, metallic 'ping' or 'psching' sound, often described as a 'tinkling' or 'exploding' call, typically given in flight or from within reeds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsreedbed, marsh, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across temperate Europe and Asia, from the UK and parts of Western Europe eastward through Central Asia to China. Primarily resident in many areas, but some populations undertake short-distance migrations.
Identifying FeaturesLong tail, Male's black moustachial stripes, Orange bill, Grey head (male), Tawny body plumage, Reedbed habitat, Distinctive 'ping' call
Description
A small, long-tailed passerine bird found exclusively in reedbeds. Males are easily identified by their distinctive black 'moustaches' and grey heads, while females are duller brown. They are often heard before they are seen, with a characteristic 'ping' call.
