Somali Bunting

About the Somali Bunting

The Somali bunting or Somali golden-breasted bunting (Emberiza poliopleura) is a species of bird in the family Emberizidae. It is found in Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. Its natural habitats are dry savannah and subtropical or tropical dry shrubland, typically observed in pairs.

The Somali Bunting is a medium-large bunting, 14–15 cm (5.5–5.9 in) long, and weigh 14–18 g (0.49–0.63 oz). It is an attractive passerine, its distinctive features include a striking black-and-white facial pattern, a grey back streaked with russet, a grey rump, and a bright yellow breast with pale flanks. Females are duller than males, with brown wash on head. Juveniles are similar to females.

Similar to the closely related Golden-breasted Bunting, but the Somali Bunting exhibits a generally paler coloration, narrower black facial stripes, a more subdued gray back and rump, and pronounced pale sides. In addition, its preferred habitat is drier, and range overlap with the Golden-breasted Bunting is minimal.

Vocalization includes a repeated series of short, whistled phrases, each composed of two distinct notes; one of which is a long ascending whistle. Wikipedia →