Grey-necked Bunting
NameGrey-necked Bunting
Common NameGrey-necked Bunting
Scientific NameEmberiza buchanani
FamilyEmberizidae
Wingspan (cm)27.5
Length (cm)15.5
Weight (g)22
Plumage DetailsMales have a plain grey head and neck with a distinct white eye-ring and a pale pinkish bill. The upperparts are streaked brown and grey, while the underparts are a warm rufous-orange, fading to paler on the belly. Females are similar but generally duller with less intense rufous.
Vocalization / CallThe song is a short, clear, and somewhat hesitant series of notes, often described as 'twee-twee-twee-chup-chup'. Calls include a sharp 'chip' or 'tsip'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, mountain, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds from Turkey and the Caucasus eastward through Central Asia to Afghanistan and Pakistan. It winters primarily in India, with some populations also found in parts of the Arabian Peninsula and northeastern Africa.
Identifying FeaturesPlain grey head and neck, Prominent white eye-ring, Warm rufous underparts, Pale pinkish bill, Streaked brown upperparts
Description
This medium-sized bunting is characterized by its plain grey head and neck, contrasting with warm rufous underparts. It typically inhabits arid and semi-arid rocky landscapes, where it forages on the ground for seeds and insects.
