Dunnock

The Dunnock Prunella modularis, also known as the hedge sparrow, is a small, inconspicuous bird belonging to the family Prunellidae. It is characterised by its plain brown-streaked back, grey underparts, and a thin, pointed bill. Males and females look similar, blending into hedgerows and shrubs. The BTO code for the Dunnock is D..

Dunnock on a branch within a woodland

Dunnocks are found in a variety of habitats, including gardens, hedgerows, woodlands, and scrub. They are often seen foraging quietly on the ground, searching for insects, spiders, seeds, and other small invertebrates. Dunnocks are shy and secretive, preferring to skulk in dense vegetation, though they are commonly found in gardens and are sometimes mistaken for sparrows due to their size and colour.

Dunnock feeding in a local park

Dunnocks breed from March to July and are notable for their complex breeding behaviour, which can involve monogamy, polygamy, or polyandry. Nests are built by the female in dense vegetation, often low to the ground, using twigs, moss, and grass, and lined with softer materials like feathers. Clutches typically consist of 4-5 pale blue eggs, which the female incubates for 12-14 days. Both parents, and sometimes additional males in polyandrous systems, feed the chicks, which fledge after 11-14 days. A pair may raise two or three broods in a season. The UK Dunnock population is estimated to be around 2.3 million breeding territories, making it a widespread and familiar bird. Despite its abundance, the species experienced declines in the late 20th century due to changes in land use and habitat loss.

Dunnock in my garden

The Dunnock is listed as Amber on the Birds of Conservation Concern (BoCC) 5 due to historical declines and its partial recovery. It is protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, making it illegal to harm or disturb them or their nests. Key threats to Dunnocks include the loss of hedgerows, reduced availability of undergrowth for nesting, and predation by domestic cats. Conservation efforts for Dunnocks focus on maintaining and restoring hedgerows and dense vegetation, which provide essential nesting and foraging sites. Encouraging wildlife-friendly gardening, such as planting native shrubs and reducing pesticide use, supports Dunnocks in urban and suburban areas. Preserving natural habitats and promoting sustainable land management are essential to ensure the continued success of this understated but fascinating bird. 

Dunnock amongst a woodland understorey