Cirl Bunting

The cirl bunting (Emberiza cirlus) was once locally common and widespread in southern England but is now restricted largely to south Devon. Cirl buntings are birds of mixed farmland and the loss of sources of food (both winter and summer) and nesting sites (because of changes in agricultural practices) was identified as the major reason for the cirl bunting’s dramatic decline. Cirl buntings use their broad beaks to feed on seeds and they are a close relative of the yellowhammer.

In 1989 there were estimated to be only 118 pairs left in the country.  After research had identified the reasons behind the decline, targeted conservation action was implemented by RSPB and English Nature (now Natural England) working closely with farmers and land managers to establish cirl bunting habitat, mainly through the government’s agri-environment schemes.  By 2009, numbers had increased to 862 pairs although geographical distribution has not increased greatly.

The Cirl Bunting Project has a lot of information on the cirl bunting, including efforts to reintroduce the species to Cornwall.

Cirl Buntings in Plymouth

Cirl buntings have been recorded at Jennycliff although sightings are not frequent. For more information on where to see this species please visit the RSPB.

Photo credit: Andy Hay