Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Snowfinch
Scientific name: Montifringilla nivalis
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: PASSERIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Tolerant
Safe distance: 10 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.06-31.08
Gestation: 12-14 jours
Births: 15.06-15.08
Habitat:
High-altitude environments such as alpine meadows, scree slopes and mountain roadsides
Description:
The snowfinch is a small mountain passerine measuring 14–16 cm, with grey-brown plumage, a distinctive black crown and a contrasting white rump. It inhabits high-altitude environments such as alpine meadows, scree slopes and mountain roadsides, feeding mainly on insects and seeds. During the breeding season, the male performs song flights and aerial displays over its territory to attract the female, and pairs build a nest in rock cavities or under stones.
Recommended lens:
>=300 mm
Photography tips:
Photograph the snowfinch at dawn or dusk with a telephoto lens of ≥300 mm to isolate the black crown and white rump. Position yourself low on the alpine meadow or scree slope, use a fast shutter speed to freeze flight, and maintain at least 10 m distance to avoid disturbance.
Ready to take action?
Choose your platform and start your free trial today
