Species profile
About this species
The Snow Bunting is a strikingly beautiful passerine bird of the family Calcariidae, recognised by its bold black & white plumage in breeding males & warm tawny-buff tones in winter. It breeds across the high Arctic tundra & mountainous regions, migrating south in winter to coastal areas, open fields & moorlands. One of the hardiest songbirds in the world, it can withstand extreme cold & is often seen foraging in flocks across snow-covered landscapes.
Snow Buntings breed on high Arctic tundra & rocky mountain plateaus. In winter they favour open coastal habitats such as sand dunes, shingle beaches, saltmarshes & open farmland with stubble fields & moorland edges.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Snow Bunting with us in Iceland.
These departures are part of our Europe programme.
In the field, Robin Lowry helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Winter months from November to February are ideal when birds gather in coastal dunes & stubble fields. Early morning light provides the best conditions for capturing their plumage detail & behaviour.
Approach slowly & low to the ground as Snow Buntings are skittish in open terrain - using a vehicle as a hide on coastal tracks can be highly effective. Shoot in the golden hour light to capture the warm buff & chestnut tones in their winter plumage against snow or frost. In winter flocks, anticipate when the group takes flight to capture dynamic action shots, pre-focussing on the leading edge of the flock.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Snow Bunting
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.