Reed Bunting

18 hours ago

Spotted

A common and widespread bunting across temperate Eurasia, the breeding male Reed Bunting is easily identified by its black head and throat with a prominent white moustachial stripe and collar. Females and winter males are browner.

Where to spot

Widespread across temperate Eurasia, from Western Europe to East Asia. Found in wetlands, reed beds, marshes, damp scrub, and increasingly in drier arable habitats.

How to spot

Look for them perched on reeds or low vegetation near water. Breeding males are highly conspicuous with their black and white head pattern. Listen for their short, repetitive, and often slightly melancholic song, a good way to locate them.

When to spot

Year-round in many parts of its range. Breeding season (May-July) is when males are most conspicuous and singing from prominent perches in their territories.

Where to spot

Widespread across temperate Eurasia, from Western Europe to East Asia. Found in wetlands, reed beds, marshes, damp scrub, and increasingly in drier arable habitats.

How to spot

When to spot

Year-round in many parts of its range. Breeding season (May-July) is when males are most conspicuous and singing from prominent perches in their territories.

Credits: Pixamio

Credits: TheOtherKev

Credits: gescha373

Credits: TheOtherKev

Credits: ZenAga

Credits: TheOtherKev

Credits: Georg_Wietschorke

Credits: TheOtherKev

Reed Buntings are highly adapted to wetland environments, often building their cup-shaped nests low among dense reeds or other marsh vegetation, sometimes even suspending them just above the water level.

Spotted Information Sounds Comments