Corn Bunting vs Yellowhammer

In short

Corn Buntings and Yellowhammers can be tricky to differentiate at a glance, but the bill size is a key feature: Corn Buntings have a noticeably larger and stouter bill. Yellowhammers are more colorful, with a distinctive yellow head and underparts, especially in males. Listen for their songs, as these differ distinctly between the two.

Identification tips

• Bill size: Corn Buntings have a larger, stouter bill.
• Color: Look for the bright yellow head and underparts of the Yellowhammer.
• Song: Listen for the jangling song of the Corn Bunting versus the 'bread and no cheese' song of the Yellowhammer.
• Habitat: Note the preference for agricultural fields by Corn Buntings and hedgerows by Yellowhammers.

Size

Corn Buntings are slightly larger and bulkier than Yellowhammers, with a more robust appearance.

Plumage

Corn Buntings have a more subdued, streaky brown plumage overall, while Yellowhammers, especially males, display bright yellow on the head and underparts, with a reddish-brown rump.

Behaviour

Both species can be seen foraging on the ground, but Yellowhammers are more likely to be spotted perched in open areas singing.

Habitat

Both species inhabit open countryside, but Corn Buntings are more often found in agricultural fields, while Yellowhammers prefer hedgerows and open woodlands.

Voice

Corn Buntings have a distinctive jangling song, often compared to the sound of jangling keys, while Yellowhammers have a well-known song that sounds like 'a little bit of bread and no cheese'.