The striolated bunting is a passerine bird in the bunting family Emberizidae, a group now separated by most modern authors from the finches, Fringillidae.
Region
North Africa, the Middle East, and parts of South Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Maghreb and the Sahara margins across Egypt and Sudan through the Arabian Peninsula to Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and northwest India. It inhabits arid and semi-arid rocky hillsides, cliffs, wadis, and stony slopes with sparse scrub. Frequently seen around boulder-strewn slopes, canyon edges, and dry riverbeds. Often approaches water sources in dry regions, especially at dawn and dusk.
Altitude Range
0–2500 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The striolated bunting favors rocky deserts and wadis where its finely striped head and sandy tones provide excellent camouflage. It often sings from prominent rocks with a clear, tinkling bunting song. Pairs nest in rock crevices or on the ground under sparse shrubs. Adults feed mostly on seeds but switch to more insects during the breeding season.
Emberiza striolata - MHNT
Temperament
wary yet often confiding near rocks and wadis
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, undulating flights between rocks
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs during the breeding season, forming small loose flocks outside it. Nests are placed in rock crevices, ledges, or on the ground under shrubs, and both parents participate in care. Clutch size is usually 3–4 eggs. Often perches conspicuously on boulders to sing or survey territory.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, tinkling series of short phrases reminiscent of other buntings, delivered from exposed rock perches. Calls include a sharp metallic tsip and soft contact notes.
Plumage
Fine, striated head pattern with contrasting light and dark stripes; sandy-brown to grey-brown upperparts with subtle streaking; warm rufous tones on rump and wings; paler underparts with light streaking on the breast.
Diet
Primarily consumes grass and weed seeds, supplemented with buds and small grains. During the breeding season it takes more insects such as beetles and caterpillars for protein. Forages mainly on the ground, picking seeds among stones and at the bases of shrubs. Frequently visits waterholes in arid areas.
Preferred Environment
Open rocky slopes, wadis, and cliff bases with sparse bushes and scattered grasses. Often feeds along track edges, dry riverbeds, and near human-made water sources in deserts.
