Closely related to the Black-headed Bunting, the breeding male Red-headed Bunting is characterized by its reddish-brown head and neck, contrasting with its yellow underparts and chestnut back.
Where to spot
Breeds across Central Asia, from the Caspian Sea eastwards to Mongolia. Winters predominantly in the Indian subcontinent.
How to spot
Similar to the Black-headed Bunting, look for males singing from prominent perches in open, agricultural, or bushy areas. The rich reddish-brown head is the key identification feature for males. Females are much duller.
When to spot
Best seen during the breeding season (May-July) in its Central Asian range or during winter in India (October-March).
Where to spot
Breeds across Central Asia, from the Caspian Sea eastwards to Mongolia. Winters predominantly in the Indian subcontinent.
How to spot
Similar to the Black-headed Bunting, look for males singing from prominent perches in open, agricultural, or bushy areas. The rich reddish-brown head is the key identification feature for males. Females are much duller.
When to spot
Best seen during the breeding season (May-July) in its Central Asian range or during winter in India (October-March).
Credits:
By Мухаммадсолех Оев - Own work, CC BY 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=149125825
The Red-headed Bunting and Black-headed Bunting are known to hybridize where their breeding ranges overlap, leading to individuals with intermediate plumage characteristics that can pose identification challenges.
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