Emberiza lathami
The Crested Bunting (Emberiza lathami) is a striking passerine bird, a member of the Old World Bunting family Emberizidae. Males are instantly recognizable by their prominent, pointed black crest, black head, and a distinctive white patch on the side of the neck. Their upperparts are a rich chestnut, contrasting with white underparts featuring chestnut streaking on the flanks, and a rufous vent. Females are much duller, displaying a brownish, streaked head with a less pronounced crest, and mo...
Found in open woodlands, scrub, secondary growth, and cultivated areas, often near human habitation. Typically occurs in subtropical and tropical lowlands, ascending to elevations of around 2000 meters.
Primarily granivorous, feeding on a variety of seeds from grasses and herbs, as well as grains. During the breeding season, their diet shifts to include insects and other invertebrates to provision their growing young.
Crested Buntings are diurnal birds, primarily foraging on the ground where they glean seeds and insects, though they will also pick items from low vegetation. Males are highly territorial during the breeding season, delivering their distinctive, often metallic-sounding songs from prominent perche...
The Crested Bunting boasts a wide distribution across South and Southeast Asia. Its breeding range extends across the Himalayan foothills, from northern Pakistan eastward through Nepal, Bhutan, and Northeast India. It continues into northern Myanmar, southern China (including provinces like Yunna...
Least Concern
- The Crested Bunting is named for its striking, erect crest, which is particularly prominent in males. - Its scientific name, *Emberiza lathami*, honors the eminent British ornithologist John Latham. - Males often sing from very conspicuous perches, making them relatively easy to spot despite th...