Species BirdsSnow Bunting

Snow Bunting

Plectrophenax nivalis

UncommonBird
Illustration of Snow Bunting (Plectrophenax nivalis)

The Snow Bunting breeds farther north than any other songbird, nesting in rock crevices on the high arctic and even on the northern coast of Greenland. In winter, flocks swirl over snow-covered fields like animated snowflakes, flashing white wing patches. Males return to the breeding grounds in April when temperatures can still reach -30°C, gaining a buff-washed look as white feather tips wear away by breeding season.

Habitat
Arctic tundra and cliffs in summer; open snowy fields in winter
Diet
Seeds and insects
How common
Uncommon

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