Varied Bunting Identification

Varied Bunting Adult male
Adult male

Somewhat hefty finchlike songbird with a thick bill. Males are and unmistakable blue and reddish purple overall, but can appear dark from a distance.

© Zak Pohlen | Macaulay LibraryNayarit, March 23, 2014
Varied Bunting Female
Female

Females are pale brown overall with an unstreaked breast.

© Jay McGowan | Macaulay LibraryTexas, July 25, 2016
Varied Bunting Male
Male

Males have a blue body marked with reddish purple chest and nape. Occurs in scrubby woodlands, thorn forests, areas near streams, and desert washes.

© David Hollie | Macaulay LibraryTexas, June 26, 2014
Varied Bunting Female
Female

Females are tan overall with unmarked wings and a clean breast. Note the thick bill with a curved upper mandible.

© David Hollie | Macaulay LibraryArizona, June 04, 2015
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Adult Description

  • Small songbird.
  • Short, thick bill.
  • Male dark, purplish, with red nape.
  • Female dull tan.

Male Description

Breeding (Alternate) Plumage: Blue crown and rump. Reddish purple body. Red nape. Appears dark purplish overall from a distance.
Nonbreeding (Basic) Plumage: Brown overall.

Female Description

Smooth, unmarked grayish brown plumage overall.

Immature Description

Immature of both sexes resembles adult female.
Relative Size

Relative Sizesparrow or smallersparrow-sized or smaller
Measurements
  • Both Sexes
    • Length: 4.3-5.5 in (11-14 cm)
    • Weight: 0.4-0.5 oz (11-13 g)
    • Wingspan: 8.3 in (21 cm)