Corn Bunting

📍 Local Expert Tip

“The Corn Bunting is the ‘Fat Man of the Barley’ suffered massive declines nationally. Sussex remains a stronghold and Steep Down, north of Lancing Ring is one of the most reliable places in the county to see and hear this iconic farmland bird.”

🔍 Overview

A farmland specialist, the Corn Bunting is now rare in Sussex due to habitat loss. Look for singing males on wires or posts in open countryside.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Size: Medium bunting (18–19 cm)
Plumage: Plain brown, streaked
Distinctive Marks: Large head, stout bill, no face pattern
Bill: Thick and yellowish
Tail: Short with white outer feathers
Flight: Undulating and heavy

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Localised to South Downs, Chantry and Kithurst Hill, and Cissbury. Needs open farmland with uncut margins.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Song is a metallic “jangling keys” sound. Often sings from fences or wires.

🍴 Diet

Seeds from grasses and cereals, insects in summer.

📸 Birding Tip

Late spring is best. Scan farmland and listen for its song — more often heard than seen.