Prunellidae

Accentors are a genus of small passerine birds in the family Prunellidae, found exclusively in the Old World. They mainly inhabit mountainous regions of Europe and Asia, except for the dunnock and Japanese accentor, which can also be found in lowland areas. These birds are not highly migratory but may leave their coldest habitats in winter for altitudinal movement.

Measuring 14 to 18 cm in length and weighing 25 to 35 g, accentors are fairly drab with thin, sharp bills suited for a diet of ground-dwelling insects, seeds, and berries. They often form flocks, except for the solitary dunnock, known for its distinctive mating displays.

Accentors typically have one to three broods per year, with males engaging in elaborate courtship songs. They build neat cup nests and lay 3-6 unspotted green or blue eggs, which take about 12 days to incubate. Both parents feed the young, who fledge after around 12 days.

They prefer mountainous habitats above the tree-line but below the snow-line, with some species, like the Siberian accentor, known for long-distance migration. Accentors generally stay low to the ground, even when flushed.