Reed Bunting

First time I had noticed this little bird when out on my walk. Seemingly widespread resident throughout Britain, but retreating from Northern Scotland in winter.

Breeds mainly near water, which is where I found this chap, but does not depend on reeds. In winter, found also in fields and even gardens, feeding with other buntings and finches.

Breeding male unmistakable with bold black and white head pattern as you can see. Female is rather sparrow like but with distinctive head markings and streaked breast and flanks. In winter, males head pattern more like females.

This bird averages 15.5 cm from tip to tail, although when trying to catch it in a shot, it seems alot smaller.