Snow bunting  (Plectrophenax nivalis)

Learn about the scientific name of this species and how it fits into the tree of life at Nature Navigator.

Description

Snow buntings are known locally as 'snowflakes', and the specific part of the scientific name nivalis means 'snowy' (6). They certainly live up to these names; in summer, males are almost entirely white underneath with a black back, and females have greyish streaks on the crown, cheeks and breast. Juveniles are generally grey rather than white. In winter, both sexes take on a more 'rusty' plumage, but males have more prominent white patches on the wings than females (2). Calls include a rippling 'per'r'r'rit' and a twittering song is also produced (2).

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