Cinereous Bunting
NameCinereous Bunting
Common NameCinereous Bunting
Scientific NameEmberiza cineracea
FamilyEmberizidae
Wingspan (cm)27.5
Length (cm)16.5
Weight (g)24
Plumage DetailsMales have a greyish head and upperparts, with a distinctive bright yellow throat and often a yellow wash around the eye. Underparts are pale greyish-white. Females and juveniles, like the one pictured, are duller, with less yellow on the head and throat, and more streaking on the flanks and breast. The back is streaked brown, and the wings are plain brown with faint wing bars.
Vocalization / CallThe song is a short, simple, and somewhat hesitant series of notes, often described as 'tsi-tsi-tsi-tsee-tsee-tsee'. Calls include a sharp 'chip' or 'tsip'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, grassland, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the eastern Mediterranean region, including parts of Greece, Turkey, and the Middle East. Winters in northeastern Africa, primarily Sudan and Eritrea.
Identifying Featuresdull greyish-brown plumage, yellowish throat and face (brighter in males), pale underparts, streaked back, short, conical bill
Description
This medium-sized bunting is characterized by its dull greyish-brown plumage, often with a yellowish wash on the head and throat, particularly in males. It typically forages on the ground in dry, open habitats, feeding on seeds and insects.
