Cirl Bunting
NameCirl Bunting
Common NameCirl Bunting
Scientific NameEmberiza cirlus
FamilyEmberizidae
Wingspan (cm)23.5
Length (cm)15.5
Weight (g)24
Plumage DetailsMale: Distinctive head pattern with an olive-green crown, yellow supercilium, black eye-stripe, yellow cheek patch, black moustachial stripe, and yellow throat. The upperparts are streaky brown, and the underparts are yellowish with streaky flanks. Female: Duller overall, with a less pronounced head pattern, more streaking on the breast and flanks, and a browner appearance.
Vocalization / CallThe song is a high-pitched, rapid, monotonous trill, often described as 'tsee-tsee-tsee-tsee-tsee' or 'zit-zit-zit-zit-zit', delivered from a prominent perch.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across southern Europe, parts of North Africa, and western Turkey, typically in areas with a Mediterranean climate.
Identifying FeaturesMale's black and yellow head pattern, Olive-green crown, Streaky brown back, Yellowish underparts, Rapid trilling song
Description
A small, stocky bunting, the male Cirl Bunting is easily identified by its striking yellow and black head pattern. Females are duller with a less defined facial pattern. They typically inhabit warm, open countryside with scattered trees and hedgerows.
