The grey-necked bunting, sometimes referred to as grey-hooded bunting is a species of bird in the family Emberizidae. It breeds along a wide distribution range from the Caspian Sea to the Altai Mountains in Central Asia and winters in parts of Southern Asia. Like other buntings it is found in small flocks.
Region
Central and South Asia
Typical Environment
Breeds in arid and semi-arid steppe, rocky foothills, and open shrublands from the Caspian basin through southern Kazakhstan to the Altai. Winters mainly in Pakistan and India, with occurrences in adjacent South Asia and the northwestern Indian subcontinent’s dry zones. Uses open fields, fallows, stony slopes, wadis, and scrubby plains with scattered bushes. During passage it can appear in cultivated landscapes and along dry riverbeds. It typically avoids dense forests and very humid habitats.
Altitude Range
0–2500 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The grey-necked bunting breeds from the Caspian region east to the Altai and winters across parts of South Asia, often gathering in small flocks. It can resemble the ortolan bunting but shows a colder grey hood and plainer, sandy-brown upperparts. Males often sing from exposed rocks or shrubs in arid, open country. During migration and winter it frequents stubble, scrub, and rocky hillsides, where it is often inconspicuous until flushed.
Grey necked Bunting at Rajkot
Emberiza buchanani MHNT
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Forms small flocks in the nonbreeding season, often mixing loosely with other seedeaters. In the breeding season it is territorial in pairs, nesting on or near the ground among low shrubs or grasses. Clutch is typically 3–5 eggs, and the male sings from exposed perches.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Song is a short, sweet, tinkling warble delivered from a perch or low flight. Calls include sharp metallic chipping notes used in flocks and soft tseet contact calls while foraging.
