Dunnocks in Italy
When the Dunnock (Prunella modularis) is present in Italy, when it nests, and which native Italy plants supply the food it depends on.
- Status in Italy
- Winter visitor
- Nesting season
- Does not breed here
- Size
- 14 cm, 21 g
When to expect dunnocks in Italy
The Dunnock reaches Italy for the winter from breeding grounds further north and east. Mild in the south; cold, foggy winters in the Po Valley.
Mediterranean on the coasts and south, continental in the Po Valley and Alpine in the north.
Native Italy plants for dunnocks
Of the native plants we track for Italy, these 8 provide food the Dunnock uses:
Haws feed thrushes all winter; spring blossom supports hundreds of insect species.
Late-winter berries when little else is left, plus dense nesting cover.
Late-summer berries taken by Blackcaps and thrushes.
Thorny cover that protects nests; early blossom for insects.
Berries and nest sites in its tangles; moths for insect-eaters.
Blackberries and impenetrable nesting cover.
Goldfinches extract the seeds from standing heads in autumn and winter.
Seed heads for Goldfinches and a nectar source for insects.
Feeding in the garden
Insects and small seeds picked from the ground.
- Best foods: Sunflower hearts, Suet pellets, Crushed peanuts.
- Feeders: Ground tray.
- Shuffles mouse-like under feeders; scatter food near shrub cover.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked
Are dunnocks in Italy all year?
No. The Dunnock is a winter visitor to Italy and breeds further north or east.
Which native plants help dunnocks in Italy?
Hawthorn, Ivy, Elder, Blackthorn, Honeysuckle, Bramble, Teasel, Common knapweed are native to Italy and provide food or cover the Dunnock uses.
Dunnocks in other countries
Other garden birds in Italy
Sources
Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.