The Rustic Bunting (Emberiza rustica) is a small songbird that breeds in the northern parts of Eurasia, including Siberia and northern Europe. It visits Japan in winter. The bird is about 15 cm long and has a small crest on its head, which is the origin of its Japanese name.
During winter in Japan, it stays in open areas such as fields, grasslands, and riverbanks, often moving in small groups. Its brown and dark streaked plumage helps it blend into the ground, giving it very effective camouflage.
The bird mainly feeds on seeds that fall on the ground, but it also eats small insects depending on the season. It is rather cautious, and will quickly hide in grass or bushes when it senses danger.
In Japan, the Rustic Bunting is known as a typical winter visitor. It is usually seen from late autumn, and as spring arrives, the birds begin their long journey back to the northern regions where they breed.