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The corn bunting (Emberiza calandra) is a robust passerine bird, a member of the bunting family Emberizidae. It is distinguished by its heavily streaked buff-brown plumage. Both sexes are similar in appearance, though the male is slightly larger than the female. This bird is often likened to larks due to its streaked appearance and shares the same open habitat preference.
When observing the corn bunting, look for a large bunting with a dark eye and yellowish mandibles. The bird's lack of showy colors, particularly on the head, sets it apart from other Emberiza species. The underparts are streaked across the flanks and breast, with the streaking forming a gorget around the throat. Notably, the lesser wing coverts are dark with white tips, and the tail is a plain brown.
The corn bunting is typically found in open country with trees, such as farmland and weedy wasteland. It prefers areas where it can forage for seeds and insects on the ground.
This species has a wide range, extending from Western Europe and North Africa to northwestern China. It is mainly resident, but some populations in colder regions migrate southwards in winter.
