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Sound clips and movies require Adobe Flash player. Latin nameEmberiza cirlus FamilyBuntings (Emberizidae) OverviewA charming relative of the yellowhammer that is at the limit of its European range in the UK. A lowland farmland bird, it has very specific requirements for habitat and climate, and agricultural changes have resulted in a severe population decline in the UK, making it a Red List species. Where to see themConfined to south-west England. Best looked for in fields and hedges of south Devon, near to the coast. When to see themAll year round. What they eatInsects and seeds Estimated numbers
* UK breeding is the number of pairs breeding annually. UK wintering is the number of individuals present from October to March. UK passage is the number of individuals passing through on migration in spring and/or autumn. Distribution
Please note that the map is only intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations. Find out moreAudio is from commercial recordings Bird Songs and Calls of Britain and Europe on 4 CDs or Bird Sounds of Europe & North-west Africa, copyright WildSounds & CEBA (www.wildsounds.com, (UK) +44 (0) 1263 741100) |
 Male  Female Similar birdsHelp the Cirl buntingWe need to take urgent action to secure the future of this species. Become a member today and help us continue our vital conservation work. |
Cirl bunting habitat, unimproved grassland with gorse in small valley - Andy Hay (rspb-images.com, Ref: 2855014_00233_009 )
Autumn bramble leaves - Andy Hay (rspb-images.com, Ref: 1999_0544_009)
Bird illustrations by Mike Langman (RSPB)