Cirl bunting  (Emberiza cirlus)

Learn about the scientific name of this species and how it fits into the tree of life at Nature Navigator.

Range

South and western Europe. Once a common bird across southern England, its UK range is now restricted to a small area of south Devon.

You can view distribution information for this species at the National Biodiversity Network Gateway.

Habitat

The cirl bunting is chiefly a bird of farmland, favouring stubble fields in winter - especially barley - weedy fallows and rough pasture. The birds form small flocks, which usually forage within easy reach of cover such as a hedgerow. Cirl buntings also visit gardens and will even feed from bird tables in winter when alternative food sources are scarce.

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