Snow Bunting – Fairhaven Beach

Who are you?

I’d seen this chaffinch-like bird flitting about on the sea defence steps at Fairhaven Lake and managed to get a few snapshots. I wasn’t sure if it was a snow bunting. On checking with those knowledgeable birders at Fylde Bird Club they confirmed it is indeed a snow bunting.

Snow Bunting

This solitary bird has been around for 4-5 weeks. It pecks for seeds and insects in the debris left by the tide and is quite approachable. In fact, he seems to like our chats and doesn’t mind me chasing him along the beach for a snapshot!

It’s fascinating to think that these little birds are winter visitors from Greenland/Iceland/Scandinavia. They also breed in Scotland on high mountains among scree and boulders.

I hope he finds a flock to join before flying back home around March in readiness for the breeding season when his plumage will change dramatically to a striking white head and black wing and tail feathers.

Until then it’s quite exciting looking for him. I’ll miss him when he flies north.