Ortolan Bunting
Emberiza hortulana

Description

Like other buntings in size (L 16 cm), but recognized by yellow-pink or peach-coloured belly contrasting with olive-toned head and breast and yellow throat. The species utilizes various habitats over its range. In most parts it inhabits open farmland where sparse trees and a high diversity of cereal crops are important. The diet seems to be principally seeds and small invertebrates. Migrant.

Reasons for the need for protection/inclusion in annex I

A massive decline is occurring in many countries in Europe. The main reasons for the decline are changes in agriculture and landscape structure and overhunting. Agricultural changes have led up to reductions in crop diversity and increases in human disturbance during the breeding season.

yellow = summer visitor
green = resident
blue = winter visitor

Population : 400,000 / 600,000 pairs

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