Birders recently spotted a rare species, the rustic bunting (emberiza rustica) at Najafgarh Jheel on the Delhi-Gurugram border, marking the first time the passerine bird, which is also elusive across India, was spotted in the national capital region (NCR).
About Rustic Bunting
It is a passerine bird in the bunting family Emberizidae.
Scientific Name: Emberiza rustica
Rustic Bunting Distribution
Its breeding range extends from the Nordic regions to eastern Siberia.
It migrates to southeast Asia and parts of East Asia, including Japan, Korea, and eastern China, during the winter months
There are only a handful of records of it being seen across India – predominantly in the northeast and across the Himalayan belt.
Rustic Bunting Features
It is relatively small but with a stocky body.
The compact body measures around 15-16 cm in length and weighs about 20-25 grams
Males and females exhibit some differences in their plumage, especially during the breeding season
Males boast a striking appearance with their black heads adorned with white stripes above and below the eyes, creating a distinctive facial pattern
Their upperparts are a combination of brown and black, with the brown being more prominent on the wings and back, creating a beautifully mottled effect
The breast and underparts are a soft pinkish-buff, transitioning to white on the belly
In contrast, females and non-breeding males are more subdued in color, featuring browner heads with less distinct facial patterns, and overall, their plumage is more uniformly brown and less vibrant
IAS-2026 - OPTIONAL / GEOGRAPHY / PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION / SOCIOLOGY / ANTHROPOLOGY / ORIENTATION ON 03 & 04-10-2025 
