Black-faced Bunting
NameBlack-faced Bunting
Common NameBlack-faced Bunting
Scientific NameEmberiza spodocephala
FamilyEmberizidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)15.5
Weight (g)20
Plumage DetailsMales have a dark grey to blackish face and throat, an olive-grey crown and nape, and a streaked brown back. The underparts are whitish with prominent dark streaking on the flanks. Females and immatures are duller with less distinct facial markings and more extensive streaking.
Vocalization / CallThe song is a clear, high-pitched series of notes, often described as 'tsee-tsee-tsee-tsu-tsu'. Calls include a sharp 'chip' or 'tsip'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across eastern Asia, including Siberia, Mongolia, China, Korea, and Japan. Winters in southern China, Southeast Asia, and parts of India.
Identifying FeaturesDark grey/blackish face (male), Olive-grey crown and nape, Streaked brown back, Whitish underparts with streaked flanks, Small, conical bill
Description
The Black-faced Bunting is a small passerine bird characterized by its distinctive dark grey or blackish face in males, contrasting with an olive-grey crown and streaked brown back. It typically forages on the ground for seeds and insects, often found in open woodlands and scrub.
