Dunnock (14–15cm, 5½–6in)

The Dunnock, a modestly colored and rather bashful garden dweller, is widely distributed across Europe, making it a familiar sight in various habitats. It tends to favor areas with a touch of density, whether it's the coastal gorse bushes, wooded bramble clumps, or even a simple garden hedge.

Despite its unassuming appearance, the Dunnock possesses a charming courtship display and emits a melodious warbling song that adds to its appeal. You might catch glimpses of it darting in and out of hiding, cautiously traversing lawns before disappearing into the foliage. Listen closely, and you'll hear its distinctive high-pitched "sissisisis" song, followed by the less remarkable yet still robust "seeh" call, often announcing its presence.

While once dubbed the 'Hedge Sparrow,' a moniker reflecting its habitat preferences, the Dunnock bears no relation to true sparrows, though some rural communities still affectionately use this name.

The mature Dunnock sports a somber palette, with a muted grey head and breast accented by dark brown hues on the crown and ear-coverts, occasionally adorned with subtle white flecks. Its mantle and wings boast a rich, warm brown tone, bordering on rufous, adorned with distinct black streaks, possibly featuring a faint white wing bar. The rump appears grayer and devoid of streaks, while the tail maintains a deep brown hue. Along its flanks, you may notice hints of russet warmth amidst prominent dark streaks. The vent and undertail present in off-white to buff shades. Completing its understated ensemble, the Dunnock features a sturdy black bill, dark brown eyes, and legs and feet in a subdued pink hue.

While it may bear a passing resemblance to the humble sparrow, earning it the enduring nickname of Hedge Sparrow, the Dunnock stands out with its slender build, contrasting sharply with the stout frame of the House Sparrow. Its slender bill, elongated tail, and unique plumage set it apart, distinguishing it as a distinct species in its own right.

In the late winter and early spring, the male Dunnock engages in a charming courtship ritual to catch the eye of a potential mate. Perched atop a small branch, typically adorning a hedge, the male initiates his courtship dance by delicately flicking one wing, then the other, in succession, captivating the attention of nearby females. This captivating display can even draw in other male contenders, turning what is typically a solitary endeavor into a lively gathering of wing-flicking enthusiasts!

Young Dunnocks exhibit a more muted appearance compared to their adult counterparts. Their heads display a warmer brown hue, while the upperparts lack the vibrant rufous tones, appearing as simple brown with subtle black streaks. The underparts are marked by prominent black blotches extending from the breast to the flanks, creating a distinctive pattern. In contrast, the throat and undertail showcase a paler white shade compared to the adults. Completing their youthful look, their bills sport a silvery-grey hue.