Your wildlife photography guide.

Explore the dunnock in detail, study its behavior, prepare your shots.

Where to observe and photograph the dunnock in the wild

Learn where and when to spot the dunnock in the wild, how to identify the species based on distinctive features, and what natural environments it inhabits. The WildlifePhotographer app offers tailored photography tips that reflect the dunnock’s behavior, helping you capture better wildlife images. Explore the full species profile for key information including description, habitat, active periods, and approach techniques.

Dunnock

Scientific name: Prunella modularis


Dunnock

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: PRUNELLIDAE

Group: Birds

Sensitivity to human approach: Very shy

Minimum approach distance: 20 m

Courtship display: May to June

Incubation: 12–14 jours

Hatchings: May to June


Habitat:
Hedgerows, woodland edges and gardens

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The dunnock is a small passerine, 12–14 cm long, with streaked brownish-grey plumage, an unobtrusive posture and a quick, darting flight. It inhabits hedgerows, woodland edges and gardens, feeding on seeds and insects searched for on the ground or in foliage. During the breeding season, the male sings from a low perch to attract the female and defend a compact territory.

Recommended lens:
500 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
Move slowly along hedgerows and stay hidden behind vegetation. Photograph in early morning to take advantage of soft light and morning song, and use a fast shutter speed to freeze its quick movements.

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