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 unmistakable with a brilliant blue head, bright green back, and vivid red underparts and rump. The wings and tail are dusky with green and red edgings. Females and immatures are much duller, primarily greenish-yellow overall.
Vocalization / CallThe song is a sweet, high-pitched, warbling series of notes, often described as similar to an Indigo Bunting but more complex. Calls include a sharp 'chip' or 'chick' note.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsdense thickets, woodland edges, scrub, coastal hammocks, suburban gardens
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeBreeds in two main populations: one in the southeastern United States (coastal Carolinas to Florida) and another in the south-central US (Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas). Winters in southern Florida, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
Identifying Featuresmale's iridescent blue head, male's bright green back, male's vivid red underparts, female's plain greenish-yellow plumage, small size, conical bill
Description
The Painted Bunting is a small, vibrant songbird, with males displaying an exceptionally colorful plumage. They are often shy, preferring dense vegetation, but males will sing their sweet, warbling song from exposed perches during the breeding season.
