Note: I originally thought this was a Japanese Reed Bunting (!!!) hence the discussion that follows.
[ Last edited by ddavid at 29/10/2012 11:31 ] Author: brendank Time: 28/10/2012 23:31
why is this a reed bunting? Shape looks wrong to me. Currently think this is probably a dull 1 st year Chestnut. Author: ddavid Time: 28/10/2012 23:41
Brendan
Are you looking at the same pic - broad whitish stripes on the mantle?
Dave Author: kkoel Time: 29/10/2012 00:18
Hi Dave
I do agree this is one of the Reed Buntings due to the back Pattern and facial pattern. However wouldn't the heavily streaked flanks and bulbous bill suggest Common Reed Bunting more?
Would love to hear more from birders experienced in these difficult species =)
[ Last edited by cosmos at 29/10/2012 03:12 ] Author: brendank Time: 29/10/2012 07:16
If this is a Reed Bunting, shouldn't the outer rectrices be white and shouldn't there be a very distinct pale grey area extending from the nape to the mantle on hindneck (for Japanese)? Author: ddavid Time: 29/10/2012 11:08
I admit that I'm no longer confident as to the id of this bird.
I do think it's a reed bunting, however - either Japanese Reed or one of the pale races of Common Reed.
AS Koel mentioned, the streaking on the flanks perhaps indicates the latter.
I'm sure one of the experts will enlighten us.
David Author: lpaul Time: 29/10/2012 11:13
Looks like a Black-faced Bunting to me. Author: ddavid Time: 29/10/2012 11:28
Thanks. My mistake - with apologies!!!
David Author: kkoel Time: 29/10/2012 11:47
Same here ^^' study time! Author: cosmos Time: 29/10/2012 17:05