Dunnocks in Portugal
When the Dunnock (Prunella modularis) is present in Portugal, when it nests, and which native Portugal plants supply the food it depends on.
- Status in Portugal
- Winter visitor
- Nesting season
- Does not breed here
- Size
- 14 cm, 21 g
When to expect dunnocks in Portugal
The Dunnock reaches Portugal for the winter from breeding grounds further north and east. Mild, wet winters that attract many wintering European songbirds.
Mediterranean with strong Atlantic influence, wetter in the north.
Native Portugal plants for dunnocks
Of the native plants we track for Portugal, 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.
Early-summer cherries for Blackbirds and Jays.
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 Portugal all year?
No. The Dunnock is a winter visitor to Portugal and breeds further north or east.
Which native plants help dunnocks in Portugal?
Hawthorn, Ivy, Elder, Blackthorn, Honeysuckle, Bramble, Teasel, Wild cherry are native to Portugal and provide food or cover the Dunnock uses.
Dunnocks in other countries
Other garden birds in Portugal
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.