Dunnock

Prunella modularis

Year-round resident across most of tempe… Thick hedgerows, garden shrubbery, bramb… Common High, thin warble

Learn to identify the Dunnock by ear. Master the "a thin, squeaky warble" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“scratchy thin warble (tsi-tsi-trr-see)”

What the Dunnock sounds like

The Dunnock—also known as the Hedge Accentor or Hedge Sparrow—is a small, shy passerine often seen flitting low in undergrowth. Though superficially drab, its subtle grey-and-brown plumage masks a life of surprisingly complex social behaviour, including polyandry and cooperative breeding.

“a thin, squeaky warble”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:A fast, high-pitched, rather monotone series of thin, tinkling notes lasting 2–3 seconds, delivered from hedge tops or low perch. Often written as “scratchy thin warble (tsi-tsi-trr-see)”.

Don't confuse with:The House Sparrow — chunkier body and thicker bill

Lessons featuring the Dunnock

Ready to test your ear? Practice identifying the Dunnock's sounds in this interactive in-app lesson.

Songs from the Hedgerow

Tier 1 · Your Garden

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Where you'll hear it

Thick hedgerows, garden shrubbery, bramble patches, woodland edges and scrubby moorland where dense cover is available.

Territorial song peaks late winter to early spring; breeding March-August, raising up to three broods. Post-breeding moult August-September; joins loose winter feeding flocks thereafter.

Similar species

House Sparrow

Chunkier body and thicker bill

Eurasian Wren

Short upright tail

Dunnock song FAQ

What does a Dunnock sound like?

A fast, high-pitched, rather monotone series of thin, tinkling notes lasting 2–3 seconds, delivered from hedge tops or low perch. Listen for the "a thin, squeaky warble" phrase.

How do I tell a Dunnock from a House Sparrow by sound?

House Sparrow: Chunkier body and thicker bill; Bold black bib in males; Distinct buff eye-stripe lacking in Dunnock; More gregarious, often in open spaces.

When is the best time to hear a Dunnock?

Territorial song peaks late winter to early spring; breeding March-August, raising up to three broods. Post-breeding moult August-September; joins loose winter feeding flocks thereafter.