Rock Bunting
NameRock Bunting
Common NameRock Bunting
Scientific NameEmberiza cia
FamilyEmberizidae
Wingspan (cm)29
Length (cm)15.75
Weight (g)23.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a striking grey head with prominent black lateral crown stripes, a black eye-stripe, and a black malar stripe. The back is streaky brown, and the rump is rufous. Underparts are warm rufous, fading to buff on the belly, with some streaking on the flanks. Females are similar but duller, with less defined head markings.
Vocalization / CallThe song is a clear, ringing, and somewhat monotonous series of notes, often described as 'tsi-tsi-tsi-tsee-tsee-tsee'. The call is a sharp 'tsip' or 'zit'.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, forest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across southern Europe, northwestern Africa, and through central Asia to the Himalayas and western China. It is resident in some parts of its range and migratory in others.
Identifying FeaturesDistinctive grey head with black stripes (lateral crown, eye-stripe, malar stripe), Warm rufous underparts, Streaky brown back, Long tail with white outer tail feathers (visible in flight), Prefers rocky, open habitats
Description
The Rock Bunting is a medium-sized bunting characterized by its distinctive grey head with black stripes, streaky brown upperparts, and warm rufous underparts. It is typically found foraging on the ground in dry, rocky, and open habitats across its range.
