Corn bunting

The corn bunting (lat. Emberiza calandra) belongs to the order Passeriformes, family Emberizidae. It is a robust bird species frequently considered an agricultural pest, as it favors open landscapes and thrives in areas adjacent to extensive cereal crop fields.

The primary crops damaged by the corn bunting include wheat, barley, oats, and millet. Significant economic damage occurs during the milk-ripe and soft-dough stages of the grain, when large flocks of birds descend upon fields to consume developing seeds directly from the ears, reducing yields.

The biology of the species shows high adaptability to agricultural environments. Nests are built predominantly on the ground, cleverly concealed within thick grass or tall crop canopy. Females typically raise two broods per season, which allows for rapid population growth during favorable agricultural years.

The nature of damage consists of localized but intensive destruction of the harvest, particularly near field borders, hedgerows, or scrubland. High densities of these birds result in thinning stands of grain, requiring proactive monitoring and targeted management to protect the agricultural investment.

• Deployment of acoustic and bio-acoustic deterrent devices.
• Installation of visual bird scarers, such as reflective tape or predator models.
• Efficient and timely harvesting to limit the window of grain vulnerability.
• Utilization of crop protection products according to local agricultural regulations.

Protection strategies are primarily focused on scaring the birds away during critical crop stages. As the corn bunting is part of the local ecosystem, integrated management combines ecological strategies with the reduction of attractants, ensuring a balance between nature conservation and agricultural productivity.