The Snow Bunting, (Plectrophenax nivalis) has recently been moved, along with Longspurs, from the Sparrow family, Emberizidae, to a new family Calcariidae, after DNA studies provided deeper insight into evolutionary histories.  It breeds with a circumpolar range in the Arctic and is the mostly northerly member of the family Passeriformes in the world. “There is no apparent limit to its northern range, while the southern range is limited by the duration of daylight, which influences their reproductive activity.”  In winter it migrates in North America to southern Canada and the northern United States.  they migrate at night using the earth’s geomagnetic field rather than visual clues for guidance.

Plectrophenax nivalis SNOW BUNTING

*gallery moved, click button below*

VIDEOS BELOW

Chicago, IL