警戒心がとても低く、人の近くにも遠慮なく寄ってくることで知られており、高所登山で出逢う山岳地帯の野鳥として存在感を示している。
Resident in Europe and Asia (montane / alpine zones)
スズメ目 Passeriformes / イワヒバリ科 Prunellidae / イワヒバリ属 Prunella
Read in English — ✴︎ Alpine Accentor
The Alpine Accentor is about 18 cm in length and weighs 32–46 g. It is widely distributed across alpine zones from Europe to Asia, and in Japan it inhabits the Northern and Southern Alps, favoring rocky ridges above the tree line at elevations of 2,000–3,000 meters.
Though generally plain in grayish-brown tones, it is distinguished by rusty markings on the breast and flanks and white spots on the wings, blending seamlessly into the surrounding rocks.
With its slender bill, it forages on the ground for insects and other small invertebrates. Known for its remarkably low wariness, it often approaches people without hesitation, making its presence well recognized as a characteristic bird of the alpine zone.
