In my previous post (link here) you have seen a mystery photo of a corn bunting.
This species is very spread here in Southern Romania and we have these nice birds all year round.
But, tell me, how do you think an amateur photographer can take some decent photos of corn buntings(not the shyest bird, but shy, though) when all he has is a point and shoot camera?
The answer is overwhelming/amazing/put-a-word-you-like-here: using a laundry dryer rack, two white sheets and a great amount of patience. This is perfect mostly during Winter when Corn Buntings come to our garden in search of seeds. There is no secret I feed these birds and from time to time I take them photos.
But enough about the ‘superb gear’ used for taking these photos, let’s talk about corn buntings.
Scientists say that Corn Bunting declined in N-W of Europe due to our ‘modern’ agricultural practices. These ‘lovely’ practices, by one hand, grow profit of some entities, but, on the other hand, deprive birds of their food, I mean seeds and insects.
They primarily eat various seeds but feed their chicks on invertebrates.
This bird is declared extinct in Ireland and in England some organizations try to implement some measures in order to conserve this species.
Corn bunting is around 19 cm long, its wingspan is less than 30 cm, weighs around 50 gr and has a large and conical bill.
Its nest is built right on ground, made from grass, and the female lays up to 5 eggs once or twice a year.
Corn Bunting is very similar to Yellowhammer, just a bit larger than Yellowhammer.
During Winter, it gathers in small flocks and many times you may see on fields trees full of birds, like the one below.
You may read more here(wikipedia.org), here (britishbirds.co.uk), here (arkive.org) and here (birdwatchireland.ie). And, if you know Romanian, check this link(animale-salbatice.ro).
Cornell's photos and words 
Thank you for the photos and information, it’s a shame that this cute bird is declining in numbers.
You’re welcome!
In our country we don’t use so many ‘modern’ agricultural practices (yet) but in a few tens of years I am sure this bird will be declining in numbers.
The use of pesticides and herbicides are increasing…
It’s adorable! I can see why you like it. Your pictures are much better than Wiki’s.
Thank you.
It’s always a joy to take photos of them.
Amazing! So I understand now! 🙂 Well done!
Ha, ha!
Thank you.
I wish I had more free time to go on fields and search some nests of Corn buntings or Yellowhammers, but you never know when you might find one.
Meanwhile, a Long eared owl appeared yesterday in a tree near my room.
That’s exciting about the owl! 🙂