Dunnock
NameDunnock
Common NameDunnock
Scientific NamePrunella modularis
FamilyPrunellidae
Wingspan (cm)20
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)20.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are streaky brown, resembling a sparrow, while the head, throat, and breast are a plain slate-grey. The flanks are finely streaked with brown, and the belly is pale. It has a thin, pointed dark bill and reddish-brown legs.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a high-pitched, insistent 'tseep' or 'tseet'. The song is a rapid, warbling, and somewhat metallic series of notes, often delivered from a prominent perch.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across most of Europe, including the British Isles, and extending into western Asia. It has also been introduced to New Zealand.
Identifying FeaturesGrey head and underparts contrasting with streaky brown back, Thin, pointed bill, Shy, skulking behavior, Often seen foraging on the ground under cover
Description
The Dunnock is a small, unassuming passerine bird often found foraging discreetly on the ground or in dense undergrowth. It is known for its shy nature and its distinctive grey head and underparts contrasting with a streaky brown back.
