File:Calcarius lapponicus (female) 1996-07-25.jpg

Lapland Longspur

1 day ago

Points: 70

Spotted

A robust ground-dwelling passerine, known for its long hind claw and beautiful, jingling song delivered in flight. Males have striking black and chestnut plumage in breeding season.

Where to spot

Breeds in Arctic tundra globally; winters in open grasslands, agricultural fields, and coastal areas in more temperate zones.

How to spot

Look for them foraging on the ground in open fields. They often flush at a distance, revealing white outer tail feathers. Listen for their distinctive rattling 'prrrrt' call in flight or their sweet, jingling song on breeding grounds.

When to spot

Best observed during spring and autumn migration when they pass through more accessible areas, or in winter when they are found in open fields.

Where to spot

Breeds in Arctic tundra globally; winters in open grasslands, agricultural fields, and coastal areas in more temperate zones.

How to spot

When to spot

Best observed during spring and autumn migration when they pass through more accessible areas, or in winter when they are found in open fields.

Credits: By Alaska Region U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service from Anchorage, United States - Lapland longspur, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=148470802

Credits: Wikimedia Commons

The Lapland Longspur's breeding range is circumpolar, extending across the Arctic and subarctic tundra of North America, Europe, and Asia, making it one of the most widely distributed Arctic songbirds.

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