Gardeners hoping to attract rare snow buntings this November should place seeds on the ground rather than in traditional bird feeders, according to the RSPB.
Snow buntings are currently classed as an Amber List species, meaning they are of conservation concern in the UK. The RSPB describes them as "large buntings, with striking 'snowy' plumages".
Feeding Preferences and Where to Spot Them
According to the RSPB, these rare birds prefer to feed on the ground, meaning they may simply fly past traditional bird feeders in search of somewhere else to eat. While putting out seeds and dried insects can encourage birds to visit, attracting snow buntings comes down to where you place their food.
If you live near upland areas, coastal or farmland, you may be lucky enough to spot them during the winter months.
How to Identify Snow Buntings
The RSPB notes that males in summer have all white heads and underparts contrasting with a black mantle and wing tips. Females are more mottled above.
In autumn and winter, birds develop a sandy/buff wash to their plumage and males have more mottled upperparts. Globally, they breed around the arctic from Scandinavia to Alaska, Canada and Greenland and migrate south in winter.
They are a scarce breeding species in the UK, in Scotland, making them an Amber List species. They are more widespread in winter in the north and east when residents are joined by continental birds. They are listed under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act, making it illegal to disturb snow buntings.
Feeding Birds During the Colder Months
When it comes to feeding garden birds between November 1 and April 30, the RSPB recommends putting out bird food and water throughout winter and spring, when natural food sources are more scarce.
It also advises feeding seeds, peanuts, suet and mealworms during colder months, when the risk of trichomonosis is lower. The RSPB suggests adjusting the amount of food provided to meet demand and never allowing uneaten food to build up.
Food in feeders should be eaten within one or two days, while suet should be eaten within seven days. Old food should be removed before refilling feeders, and water should be replaced daily.
