snøfugl

Snow bunting, known as snøfugl in Norwegian, is a small passerine bird of the Arctic regions. In winter its plumage is largely white, providing effective camouflage on snow. Males in breeding plumage are predominantly white with contrasting black wings and back; females are browner and more muted in color. The bill is short and sturdy, adapted for seed eating.

The species breeds across Arctic tundra in North America, Europe and Asia. In winter it migrates to milder regions, with regular appearances in western and central Europe, parts of North Africa and western Asia. Snow buntings favor open, barren habitats such as tundra, coastal areas, alpine steppes and cultivated fields with sparse vegetation.

Behavior and diet: Snow buntings are mainly ground foragers, feeding primarily on seeds from grasses and shrubs. In the breeding season they also take insects to supply protein for chicks. Outside the breeding season they often form flocks, sometimes mixing with other seed-eating species.

Breeding and nesting: Nests are built on the ground, usually among tussocks, rocks or dense vegetation. The clutch typically consists of four to seven eggs, which are pale blue or greenish with brown markings. Both parents participate in feeding, and incubation lasts about two weeks.

Conservation: The snow bunting is categorized as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a wide range and no rapid global decline reported. Local populations may be affected by habitat changes in Arctic regions and by climate-driven shifts in distribution, but overall the species remains relatively widespread and common in its range.