The cinereous bunting is a bird in the bunting family Emberizidae, a passerine family now separated by most modern authors from the finches, Fringillidae. This species was first described by Christian Ludwig Brehm.
Region
Eastern Mediterranean and Southwest Asia
Typical Environment
Breeds on arid, rocky slopes, scrubby phrygana, and open stony hillsides with scattered bushes, especially on Aegean islands and coastal western Turkey, extending east into parts of Iran. Prefers sparsely vegetated terrain with patches of low shrubs, stone terraces, and rocky outcrops for song posts. During migration and in winter it moves to dry savanna, acacia scrub, wadis, and agricultural fringes in northeast Africa and the southwestern Arabian Peninsula. Frequently uses edges of fields and lightly grazed rangeland where seeds and insects are abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The cinereous bunting is a subtly colored bunting of rocky, open hillsides and scrub, described by Christian Ludwig Brehm. Males in breeding plumage show an ash-grey head and breast with a contrasting yellow throat, aiding identification among similar buntings. It breeds mainly in the eastern Mediterranean and parts of Southwest Asia and migrates to northeast Africa and the Arabian Peninsula for winter. Its simple, dry song is delivered from exposed rocks or low shrubs.
Temperament
wary and somewhat secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with slightly undulating flight
Social Behavior
Typically breeds in loose, widely spaced pairs, using low shrubs or ground sites for nesting. The cup nest is placed low in vegetation or among rocks, with both parents feeding the young. Outside the breeding season it may form small flocks, especially at feeding and roost sites.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Song is a short, dry series of metallic and chipping phrases delivered from exposed rocks or shrub tops. Calls include sharp ticks and thin, high notes used in flight and alarm. The overall impression is simple and repetitive compared to many other buntings.
