You know winter can’t be far off when the Snow Buntings show up. These Arctic travellers are the true Canadian snowbirds but their idea of a winter getaway means heading into southern Ontario, not Florida. Flocks have already made an appearance in fields, along roadsides and shorelines. Some will head further south while others will remain until spring.

They are very skittish. A flock will often take to the air before you get close enough for photos, especially if they are along the road. It is easier working with solitary birds. Unless you live in the country, don’t expect to see them coming to feeders, where they prefer to feed on the ground for mixed seed. In the wild, they will feed on weed seeds.

Happy Birding!

Brian Morin

Publisher of Ontario Birding News