Sápudælur

Sápudælur, also known as the Icelandic longspur, is a small bird species belonging to the finch family. It is native to Iceland and is one of the most common birds in the country. The scientific name of the sápudælur is Calcarius lapponicus.

The sápudælur is easily recognizable by its distinctive black and white plumage. The male bird has a black cap and nape, with a white breast and belly, and a black tail with white outer feathers. The female is similar but has a less distinct black cap. Both sexes have a distinctive black bill and legs.

The sápudælur is an omnivorous bird, feeding on a variety of foods including seeds, insects, and berries. It is known to forage on the ground, often in open areas such as heaths, moors, and farmlands. The bird is also known for its acrobatic flight, often performing high-speed dives and turns.

The sápudælur is a migratory bird, breeding in Iceland and other parts of the Arctic during the summer months. It migrates southwards during the winter, often to the UK and Ireland. The bird is protected under the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA).

The sápudælur plays an important role in the Icelandic ecosystem, helping to control insect populations and disperse seeds. It is also a popular subject for birdwatchers and photographers due to its striking appearance and acrobatic flight.