Snow Bunting

The snow bunting (Plectrophenax nivalis) is a medium-sized passerine, a ground-dweller known for its remarkable ability to thrive in the harshest of Arctic climates. It is a sexually dimorphic bird, with males and females sporting different plumage patterns. The species is characterized by its white underparts and a mix of black and white across the wings and back. Males, during the breeding season, are predominantly white with stark black back and wingtips, while females have a more rufous back and black wingtips. In winter, both sexes exhibit rufous coloration on their backs. A distinctive feature of the snow bunting is its feathered tarsi, an adaptation to its frigid environment.

Identification Tips

The snow bunting measures approximately 15 cm in length, with a wingspan ranging from 32 to 38 cm, and weighs between 30 to 40 grams. The bill is typically yellow with a black tip, though males exhibit an all-black bill during the summer. In flight, the snow bunting can be identified by its undulating pattern and the flash of white in the wings.

Habitat

During the breeding season, snow buntings favor rocky Arctic habitats, nesting in cavities for protection against predators. They seek out areas with rich vegetation, such as wet sedge meadows and regions abundant with dryas and lichens. In winter, they can be found in open habitats like farms, barren fields, and lakeshores.

Distribution

The snow bunting boasts a circumpolar Arctic breeding range, with populations found in North America, Greenland, Iceland, Scotland, Norway, Russia, and Siberia. In winter, they migrate to the northern temperate zones, including southern Canada, northern United States, and parts of Europe and central Asia.

Behaviour

Snow buntings are the first migrant species to arrive in the Arctic for breeding, with males staking out territories as early as April. They migrate in small flocks and exhibit a territorial and monogamous breeding behavior. Females arrive later, and the pair works together to ensure the survival of their offspring.

Song & Calls

The snow bunting's call is a distinctive rippling whistle, and its song, used by males to attract females, is a warble that varies in structure and frequency. Vocalizations are unique to each individual, facilitating recognition and playing a role in reproductive success.

Breeding

Breeding takes place as soon as temperatures rise above freezing, with blue-green, brown-spotted eggs hatching in about 12-13 days. The young are ready to fly after another 12-14 days. Males contribute significantly to reproductive success by providing food to the incubating female.

Similar Species

The snow bunting is often confused with McKay's bunting (Plectrophenax hyperboreus) and the horned lark. McKay's bunting shares similar coloration, while the horned lark has a larger black tail and a smaller white patch on the wings.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of snow buntings varies seasonally. In colder months, they feed on seeds from various weeds and grasses, foraging in the snow. During the summer, their diet includes seeds from Arctic plants and a variety of invertebrates, which are also the exclusive diet of their nestlings.

Conservation status

The snow bunting is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. However, climate change poses potential threats to their populations, as shifts in weather patterns could affect their breeding success and competition for resources.