More Buntings in Eastern Mongolia, early September (1 Viewer)

[__Mona__]

Hi there,
maybe you can help me with the following two bunting individuals.

1) This bird was seen on 2nd of September 2023 in Chalcha river valley in Dornod, East Mongolia. Unfortunately, I only got a few shots from this perspective, before the bird disappeared. I would assume it to be a Black-Faced or maybe a Little Bunting, but not sure, if identification is even possible based only on this one shot.


2) This bunting was found in the same area on the following day, 3rd of September. I'm thinking about Black-Faced Bunting, just not sure with the autumn plumage.


Thanks for your opinions!

 

[__Mona__]

No ideas?

 

[johnallcock]

Sorry that you didn't get a reply to this post earlier.
First bird is tricky on this photo. From what can be seen of the pattern of the underparts and the head, I think it's a Little Bunting.
Second bird looks like a very worn juvenile Black-faced Bunting, in the process of body moult.

 

[__Mona__]

Thank you!