Reed Bunting
NameReed Bunting
Common NameReed Bunting
Scientific NameEmberiza schoeniclus
FamilyEmberizidae
Wingspan (cm)21
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)17
Plumage DetailsAdult breeding males have a distinctive black head and throat, a broad white collar, and white underparts. The back and wings are streaked with brown and black, often with rufous tones on the mantle. The tail is dark with white outer feathers.
Vocalization / CallThe song is a simple, repetitive, and rather unmusical series of notes, often described as 'tsip-tsip-tsip-tsee-tsee'. The call is a sharp 'zit' or 'tseep'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across much of temperate Europe and Asia, breeding from Ireland and Portugal eastwards to the Pacific coast of Russia and Japan. Northern populations are migratory, moving south for winter.
Identifying FeaturesBlack head and throat (breeding male), White collar (breeding male), Streaked brown back and wings, White underparts, Dark tail with white outer feathers, Found in wetland environments
Description
The Reed Bunting is a small passerine bird typically found in wetland habitats. Males in breeding plumage, as seen here, are striking with their black head and throat, contrasting with a prominent white collar. They often perch on reeds or low vegetation, feeding on seeds and insects.
