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Image of Ortolan Bunting
Ortolan Bunting

The Ortolan Bunting, with its melodious song and subtle olive-and-chestnut plumage, graces open fields across Europe and Asia. This elusive bird plays a vital role in its ecosystem by controlling insect populations, embodying a delicate balance between beauty and functionality.

6 years
Lifespan
19.8 g
Weight
Length: 16 - 17 cm
Size
Brown, Grey, Yellow, Olive-Grey
Color
44 mph
Top Speed
Least Concern
Conservation Status
Decreasing
Population Trend
Characteristics
Emberiza hortulana, known as the Ortolan Bunting, is a small passerine bird found in open agricultural landscapes across Europe and western Asia. It features a subtle blend of olive-green and chestnut plumage with a distinctive yellowish throat. This migratory species is known for its melodious song and secretive behavior during the breeding season.
Distribution Range of the Ortolan Bunting
The Ortolan Bunting (Emberiza hortulana) is native to Europe and parts of Western Asia. Its range extends from Scandinavia in the north, across central and eastern Europe, and into the Middle East, including countries such as Turkey, Iran, and parts of the Caucasus region. During the winter, it migrates to sub-Saharan Africa, particularly West Africa.
Ortolan Bunting's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
The Ortolan Bunting typically inhabits open and semi-open landscapes. It prefers areas with a mosaic of agricultural fields, grasslands, and open woodlands. The climate in its breeding range is temperate, with warm summers essential for breeding, while its wintering grounds in Africa have a tropical savanna climate.
Ecological Niche
The Ortolan Bunting occupies an ecological niche as a ground-nesting bird, feeding primarily on seeds and small invertebrates. It plays a role in controlling insect populations and seed dispersal. Its presence is often an indicator of traditional agricultural practices, as it thrives in areas with a mix of crops and natural vegetation.