Cirl Bunting

Description:

Cirl Buntings are small birds, slightly larher than house sparrow. The male Cirl Bunting has a striking appearance with a bright yellow head marked with a black eyestripe, a greenish back, and chestnut-brown flanks. The underparts are yellow, providing a sharp contrast to the darker upper parts. Females and juveniles (not observed todat and therefore not shown here - but can be seen in one of previous spottings from Croatia, here: https://www.projectnoah.org/spottings/65...) are less brightly colored, featuring more subdued tones that blend into their habitat.

Habitat:

These birds favor warm, dry environments. They are typically found in open, sunny areas with a mixture of agriculture and natural scrubland - such is the case here, in periphery of Chichaoua, small town close to Marrakech. Ideal habitats include olive groves, vineyards, and areas with scattered bushes and trees, which provide both food and nesting sites. Cirl Buntings are predominantly found in the warmer climates of southern Europe, with populations concentrated along the Mediterranean coast. Their range extends from Spain and Portugal eastward to Italy and parts of the Balkans.

Notes:

1. Their diet mainly consists of seeds and insects. During the breeding season, insects become a more significant part of their diet, which is important for feeding chicks. 2. They are generally monogamous and territorial during the breeding season. The breeding season typically starts in late March and can continue into August, during which females can produce two to three clutches of eggs. Cirl Buntings nest low in bushes or occasionally on the ground under cover, constructing their nests from grass and small twigs. 3. The Cirl Bunting was once in decline, particularly in the northern parts of its range, due to intensive farming practices that reduced its habitat. Conservation efforts, particularly in the UK, have focused on habitat restoration and management, leading to a gradual recovery of populations in some areas. 4. The Cirl Bunting is appreciated for its melodic song and vibrant colors, making it a favorite among bird watchers in its habitat regions. Despite facing challenges from agricultural intensification and habitat loss, targeted conservation efforts continue to help stabilize and increase its population.