Snow Bunting

Having been there a couple of weeks ago looking for Snow Bunting without success, I headed to the Tsawwassen Ferry causeway this afternoon. There was a report of one being seen the other day.

These winter migrants usually show up annually at this location and today provided better results.

There were five Snow Bunting present along the south side of the jetty.

They were busy along the edge of the gravel road foraging for seeds.

The bunting were quite cooperative as I tagged along with them,

… and provided plenty of photo opportunities. A very productive outing.

Today’s destination was the Tsawwassen Ferry causeway for Snow Buntings. I believe the first sightings this fall/winter were at Iona, but they have returned again to the causeway. While the skies were sunny, it was on the cool with the breeze. Arriving on the south side I was distracted right away,

… by a Whimbrel.

It was busy foraging for food along the shoreline with the regular Black Oystercatchers.

While the bird seemed fairly cooperative, it kept getting flushed by a kite surfer when he would go zipping by. Fortunately I still managed a few decent shots before moving on.

About half way down the causeway I located the Snow Buntings feeding on the ground.

They seemed a little skittish, so I stayed put in one area they seemed to favour.

Here they would perch on the driftwood when moving between the beach and road. It has been over a year since I have photographed either Whimbrel or Snow Bunting at this location, so I would count today’s outing as a success.

Snow Bunting

Another beautiful day, but still on the cool side. This afternoon’s walk was to the Tsawwassen ferry causeway. One winter migrant from the high arctic that can usually be seen here each year,