Corn Bunting song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Corn Bunting, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

A distinctive, rather monotonous, metallic, and jingling song, often likened to a bunch of keys being rattled or a bicycle bell. It's a rapid, repetitive series of short, sharp notes, often described as 'chip-chip-chip-chip-che-che-che-chichichichi'. Delivered from an exposed perch (e.g., fence post, bush top, telegraph wire).

Calls

A short, sharp 'zit' or 'tsip' call, often given in flight or when disturbed. Also a harsher 'chick' or 'twick'.

When they vocalize

Males sing persistently from early spring (February/March) through to late summer (July/August), often throughout the day, especially in the morning and evening. Calls are given year-round.

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