Reed buntings (Emberiza schoeniclus), widespread throughout central and northern Europe, are particularly fond of reedbeds. Sparrow-sized, they feed on seeds and invertebrates. During the breeding season, males can be spotted perched high on reeds, rushes or scrub, voicing their simple three-note territorial call. Despite the name, reed buntings will breed in a wide variety of habitats, including dry environments such as grassy sand dune systems and farm hedgerows. The use of drier habitats is a relatively recent phenomenon, possibly due to the loss of damper habitats.
