Bird : Emberiza cia ( Rock Bunting - Βουνοτσίχλονο )
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| Vasos Vasiliou - Gape Greco - March |
The Rock Bunting (Emberiza cia) is a small passerine bird in the bunting family (Emberizidae). It is found across southern Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia, typically in rocky and mountainous habitats.
Identification:
- Size: About 15-16 cm in length.
- Plumage:
- Males have a gray head with black streaks on the crown and around the eyes.
- The upperparts are brown with dark streaks, while the underparts are warm orange-brown.
- Females and juveniles are duller but show similar patterns.
- Beak: Short and conical, adapted for seed-eating.
- Tail: Long with white outer feathers, noticeable in flight.
Habitat & Distribution:
- Prefers rocky slopes, open woodlands, scrublands, and hilly areas with scattered vegetation.
- Found in southern Europe, North Africa, and Asia (from Turkey to the Himalayas and western China).
- Can be seen at altitudes up to 3,000 meters, especially in summer.
Behavior & Diet:
- Diet: Primarily seeds, but also eats insects during the breeding season.
- Foraging: Often found on the ground or in low vegetation, searching for food.
- Song: A melodious and repetitive series of notes, similar to other buntings.
Breeding:
- Season: April to July.
- Nesting: Builds a cup-shaped nest on the ground or in low shrubs, well hidden among rocks.
- Eggs: Lays 3-5 eggs, which are incubated for about 12-14 days.
Conservation Status:
- Listed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN, as it has a stable population and a wide range.
Observation Tips:
Timing: The best time to observe Rock Buntings in Cyprus is during the winter months when they migrate to the island.
Locations: Focus on rocky, elevated areas with sparse vegetation. They may also be spotted near vineyards and olive groves.
Behavior: These birds often forage on the ground, flicking their tails open as they search for seeds and insects. They are known to nest on or near the ground.
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