Gosling's Bunting
NameGosling's Bunting
Common NameGosling's Bunting
Scientific NameEmberiza goslingi
FamilyEmberizidae
Wingspan (cm)23
Length (cm)14.5
Weight (g)20
Plumage DetailsMales have a striking head pattern with black crown stripes, a white supercilium, black eye-stripe, and white malar stripe. The underparts are rufous-brown, the back is streaked brown, and the wings are darker with paler edges. The bill is yellowish. Females and juveniles have a similar but duller and less defined head pattern.
Vocalization / CallThe song is a simple, repetitive series of short, often metallic notes. Calls are typically sharp 'chip' or 'tsip' sounds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, desert, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in West Africa, ranging from Mauritania and Senegal eastwards through Mali, Niger, Chad, and Sudan to Eritrea.
Identifying FeaturesDistinctive black and white head pattern (male), Rufous underparts, Yellowish bill, Streaked brown back
Description
This small passerine is characterized by its distinctive head pattern and rufous underparts. It typically forages on the ground in arid or semi-arid scrubland, often found in small groups.
