Crested Bunting
NameCrested Bunting
Common NameCrested Bunting
Scientific NameMelophus lathami
FamilyEmberizidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)16.5
Weight (g)22.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a glossy black head, body, and a prominent spiky crest. Their wings and tail are a distinctive rich rufous-chestnut. Females are duller, streaky brown overall with a less pronounced crest, but still show rufous on the wings and tail.
Vocalization / CallThe song is a clear, ringing series of notes, often described as 'twee-twee-twee-twee-twee'. Calls include a sharp 'chip' or 'tsip'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across a wide range in Asia, including the Himalayas (northern India, Nepal, Bhutan), eastward through Southeast Asia (Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam), and southern China.
Identifying Featuresprominent spiky crest, male's glossy black body, male's rufous wings and tail, conical bill
Description
This striking bunting is characterized by its prominent, spiky crest. Males display glossy black plumage contrasted with rich rufous wings and tail, while females are duller. They are typically found in open, grassy habitats and scrubland across Asia.
