Wildlife challenge
Buntings
Three to spot
Reed bunting. Photo: Nigel Blake (rspb-images.com)
Easy to find
At first glance these widespread birds of wetlands and farmland may look a little like sparrows, but closer inspection reveals a rather distinctive bird. The males sport a black head and stark white collar in summer but look more like the streaky females in winter.
Snow Bunting. Photo: Steve Round (rspb-images.com)
Tricky to find
These chunky visitors from the north flock to our coast in autumn and winter where they feed on seeds on beaches and salt marshes. The large amounts of white in their plumage creates the impression of a flurry of snow when flocks take to the air with soft, rippling calls.
Lapland Bunting. Photo: Nigel Blake (rspb-images.com)
Lucky to find
Another visitor from the north, seen mainly in autumn with small numbers overwintering. It is well-camouflaged while feeding on seeds in coastal fields, beaches and salt marshes. Look for the subtle head pattern and stubby beak and listen for the dry rattle and ringing bell-like notes.
