Cinereous Bunting

The Cinereous Bunting, Emberiza cineracea, presents itself as a large and slender bunting, measuring 16 to 17 centimeters in length. Its most distinctive feature is the long tail adorned with white corners. The species exhibits a less streaked appearance compared to its relatives and possesses a robust pale bill. The back is cloaked in a subtle grey, with understated dark markings, while the wings bear a hint of brown.

Identification Tips

Adult males can be identified by their dull yellow heads, which are accentuated by a brighter moustachial line and throat. The southwest Turkish nominate race displays grey underparts, whereas the eastern form, E. c. semenowi, is characterized by yellow underparts. Females are draped in brownish-grey above with a whitish throat, and the moustachial stripe is the only hint of yellow. Juveniles are marked by a plain pale belly and streaking across the breast.

Habitat

This species selects the arid stony mountain slopes as its breeding grounds, crafting a niche in these rugged landscapes.

Distribution

The Cinereous Bunting breeds in the southern reaches of Turkey and Iran, migrating to winter around the Red Sea, gracing northeastern Africa and Yemen with its presence. A handful of isolated populations cling to existence within the European domain, notably on Aegean Sea isles.

Behaviour

The Cinereous Bunting is a seed eater by nature, though it adapts its diet to include insects, particularly when provisioning for its offspring. A typical clutch consists of three eggs.

Song & Calls

The call of this bunting is a rather abrasive 'tschrip', while its song is a hoarse and repetitive 'zru-zru-zru-zru'.

Breeding

Breeding in the dry stony mountain slopes, the Cinereous Bunting lays a normal clutch of three eggs, and during this period, it may increase its intake of insects to feed its young.

Diet and Feeding

Primarily a seed eater, the Cinereous Bunting adapts its diet to include insects, especially when feeding its young.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List currently classifies the Cinereous Bunting as Near Threatened, indicating that the species faces threats that could lead to its vulnerability in the near future.