The Cape Bunting (Emberiza capensis) is one of the delightful birds that occurs over much of South Africa, where they can be seen in rocky areas as well as in grassland and along dry watercourses.
Even though the boldly striped head and bright chestnut wings immediately draws attention, their colouring helps them to easily blend into their environment.
Their chestnut wing coverts contrast beautifully with their greyish nape and mantle.
These sparrow-like birds hop on the ground in search of seeds, although they also catch insects and feed on fruit and flower buds.
Cape Buntings are not the easiest birds to photograph as they seldom remain still enough. These ones were seen around the rest camp in the Mountain Zebra National Park, where they have possibly become habituated to human company – and so are a delight to observe.