Belongs to: sparrows

Compare with: house sparrow

Dunnock Prunella modularis

Also known as: hedge sparrow, hedge accentor

Birds of Conservation Concern Amber List


Best time to see: all year

Key facts

Tame ground-feeding garden and woodland bird

Habitat: gardens, rough scrub on waste ground, hedgerows

Widespread and common resident

Recognition

Sparrow-like, but with thin bill and grey face; 14–15 cm

Usually seen crouched on ground searching for food

Feeds on insects, spiders and worms; also seeds

Lifecycle

Nest is a well-concealed cup low in a tree or bush, lined with wool, hair or feathers

2 or 3 broods April to May

4–6 bright blue eggs

  • Main photo

Photo © Owen Keen