Alpine Accentor
Prunella collaris
The Alpine Accentor is a rare winter visitor to Britain, typically seen in the southern regions, particularly in areas with rocky outcrops and scrubland, from October to March. It is more commonly found in its native Eurasian and North African ranges, but occasional sightings can be made in the UK.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Alpine Accentor in the field.
The Alpine Accentor can be identified by its distinctive white eye-ring, brownish-grey back, and black stripe above the eye, as well as its overall compact, rounded shape.
The Alpine Accentor is slightly smaller than a House Sparrow, with a more compact build.
The male Alpine Accentor has a greyish-brown back, wings, and tail, with a reddish-brown crown, white throat, and breast, and a black stripe above the eye, with little seasonal variation.
The female Alpine Accentor is similar to the male, with slightly duller colours and a less pronounced black stripe above the eye.
The Alpine Accentor's call is a sharp, high-pitched "tek" or "tink" sound, often repeated in a series, while its song is a melodic, warbling phrase.
Alpine Accentors are ground-dwelling birds that forage for insects, seeds, and fruits, often in small flocks, and can be seen running or hopping along rocky outcrops and scrubland, with a distinctive, bobbing flight style.
The Alpine Accentor can be confused with the Dunnock, but can be distinguished by its white eye-ring, black stripe above the eye, and more reddish-brown crown, as well as its more compact build and distinctive call.
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