Pallas's Bunting
NamePallas's Bunting
Common NamePallas's Bunting
Scientific NameEmberiza pallasi
FamilyEmberizidae
Wingspan (cm)21.5
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)12.5
Plumage DetailsBreeding males have a distinctive black head and throat, a broad white collar extending to the nape, and a streaked brown back. Their underparts are white with rufous flanks, and they display two white wing-bars. Females and non-breeding males are duller, with a more streaked head and less defined black and white patterns.
Vocalization / CallThe call is typically a sharp 'tsip' or 'zit'. The song is a simple, short, rattling or trilling phrase.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatswetland, tundra
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across northern Asia, from northern Russia through Siberia to Mongolia and northern China. Winters in southern parts of its breeding range, as well as in China, Korea, and Japan.
Identifying FeaturesMale's black head and white collar (breeding plumage), Streaked brown back, White underparts with rufous flanks, Small size, Prefers wet, reedy habitats
Description
This small bunting is characterized by the male's striking black head and broad white collar during breeding season. It is typically found in wet, shrubby habitats across northern Asia, where it forages for seeds and insects.
