Striolated Bunting

The striolated bunting (Emberiza striolata) is a small, yet distinctive passerine bird, belonging to the bunting family Emberizidae. It measures approximately 14 cm in length, presenting a modest size akin to the house bunting and slightly smaller than the rock bunting.

Identification Tips

The breeding male is characterized by a rich chestnut body, complemented by a grey head adorned with darker streaks. A prominent white supercilium and moustachial streak accentuate its facial features. The female, while similar, exhibits a brownish tinge to the grey head and more subdued streaking. The striolated bunting is distinguished from the north African house bunting by its more pronounced facial striping and a paler belly.

Habitat

This species is a resident breeder in arid regions, favoring remote wadis typically near streams, away from human settlements unlike its relative, the house bunting.

Distribution

The striolated bunting's range extends from Chad, across southwest Asia to northwestern India, and throughout parts of Africa.

Behaviour

Breeding territories have been observed to expand southward in India, with nests found near Saswad, close to Pune. The bird lays a clutch of two to four eggs, with an incubation period lasting around 14 days.

Song & Calls

The striolated bunting's vocalizations are reminiscent of the common chaffinch, albeit a softer rendition, delivered from a favored perch.

Breeding

Recent observations have noted the striolated bunting's breeding range in India to include more southerly locales. The nest is typically situated on the ground or within a ground cavity.

Diet and Feeding

The natural diet of the striolated bunting consists primarily of seeds. However, during the feeding of its young, the diet shifts to include insects.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List currently classifies the striolated bunting as Least Concern, indicating a stable population status.