Slaty Bunting
NameSlaty Bunting
Common NameSlaty Bunting
Scientific NameLatoucheornis siemsseni
FamilyEmberizidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)16
Plumage DetailsAdult males exhibit a uniform dark slaty-grey coloration across the head, back, wings, and breast, sharply contrasting with a clean white belly and undertail coverts. Females are generally duller, with brownish-grey upperparts and a less distinct white belly. Juveniles resemble females.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a sharp 'tsip' or 'tseet' call. The song is typically a short, high-pitched, and somewhat warbling phrase.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species is endemic to central China, primarily inhabiting the mountainous regions of Sichuan, Gansu, Shaanxi, and Hubei provinces.
Identifying FeaturesDark slaty-grey plumage (males), Contrasting white belly and undertail coverts, Small size with a short tail, Found in high-altitude scrub and forest edges in central China
Description
The Slaty Bunting is a small, plump passerine bird with a relatively short tail. Males are striking with their dark slaty-grey plumage contrasting sharply with a white belly, while females are duller brownish-grey. It is often found foraging on the ground or in low vegetation in its mountainous habitat.
