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Birds and Butterflies of Rhodes
RODOPTERA
Emberiza calandra
Corn bunting. Greek: τσιφτάς. Gadouras River, May 2022.
Resident, significant decline in numbers in recent years. Length 16-19 cm, wingspan 28-31 cm. Sexes similar. Open areas with scrub and scattered trees, farmland. Feeds primarily on seeds, also takes insects especially when breeding. Polygamous behaviour, some males with 2-3 females in defended breeding territory. Repetitive soft ‘jangling-keys' song delivered from prominent perches.
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