Reed Bunting

Photo from Wikimedia Commons

The Reed Bunting is not often seen and has Amber conservation status.

Sparrow-sized but slim and with a long, deeply notched tail, the male has a black head, white collar and a drooping moustache. Females and winter males have a streaked head. In flight the tail looks black with broad, white edges.

Hops on ground, wagging or flicking tail.

Predominantly a farmland and wetland bird. Typically found in wet vegetation but has recently spread into farmland and, in winter, into gardens. When singing the male usually perched on top of a bush, or reed.

When to see them

All year round.

What they eat

Seeds and insects.

Canada Goose   Coot   Grey Heron   Black headed gull   Kingfisher   Mallard  Moorhen   Mute Swan   Reed Bunting