Painted Bunting
NamePainted Bunting
Common NamePainted Bunting
Scientific NamePasserina ciris
FamilyCardinalidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)16
Plumage DetailsAdult males are spectacularly colored with an iridescent blue head, a red eye-ring, bright red underparts and rump, and a vibrant green back. Females and immatures are much duller, primarily greenish-yellow with a pale eye-ring, providing excellent camouflage.
Vocalization / CallThe song is a sweet, high-pitched warbling series of notes, often described as somewhat jumbled. Calls include a sharp 'chip' or 'chick' note.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsshrublands, woodland edges, thickets, coastal scrub, grasslands
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeBreeds in two distinct populations in the United States: one along the southeastern coast (Florida, Georgia, Carolinas) and another in the south-central states (Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas). Winters in southern Florida, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
Identifying Featuresmale's iridescent blue head, male's bright red underparts, male's green back, small size, conical bill
Description
The male Painted Bunting is arguably North America's most colorful bird, displaying a dazzling array of blue, green, and red plumage. These shy birds are often difficult to spot despite their vibrant colors, preferring dense vegetation and often foraging on the ground.
