Best time to travel to Wales

Snow Buntings in Wales

Take a look at this showy game bird when you visit the Gronant Sand Dunes

Best time: December–February

Snow Buntings
Snow Buntings

If you are into bird watching, visit Gronant—a wonderful spot to see various species of birds. This area consists of marsh, sand dunes, shingle, and sandy beaches. In summer this place is home to skylarks, little terns, water rails, snipes, and reed buntings. In winter the lake attracts gulls and sometimes even shore larks.

Numbers of snow buntings migrate here in winter. Black and white during the summer, snow buntings become fluffy, black, and white with black wingtips and a brown breast in winter. By the way, they are surprisingly tame, so you may even manage to get pretty close for a photo!

Practical info

When is the ideal time for Snow Bunting sightings at Gronant Sand Dunes?

Gronant Sand Dunes is an excellent location to see Snow Buntings from December to February. These birds migrate from the Arctic during winter to nest on the ground in Welsh coastal areas. Alongside Snow Buntings, bird enthusiasts can also observe other species such as gulls and shore larks during this season at one of Wales’ most beautiful destinations. Show more

What is the habitat of Snow Buntings in Wales?

Located within the Welsh coastline, primarily around Gronant Sand Dunes, Snow Buntings prefer to nest in coastal terrain. They can be seen scavenging for food on the beach, salt marshes, and cliff tops. Gronant offers some of the best opportunities to spot these birds within the UK. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views and observe various bird species in their natural habitat. Show more

What types of birds, besides Snow Buntings, can be spotted during the summer in Gronant?

The habitats of Gronant Sand Dunes are home to various bird species all year round. Summer visitors can look forward to Spotting species such as skylarks, water rails, little terns, reed buntings, and snipes. The sandy areas within the dunes provide the perfect environment for small birds to thrive. Some bird species breed near the heathland and peat bogs, which improves biodiversity in the area. Show more

What is the type of habitat found in Gronant Sand Dunes?

Gronant Sand Dunes boasts an array of habitats, such as sandy beaches, marshes, and sand dunes. These areas attract different bird species, making it a well-known birding destination. The sand dunes are home to rare bird species such as the Snow Bunting, while grassy areas provide a habitat for other small creatures such as rabbits and the natterjack toad. The natural grassland surrounding the dunes offers a haven for a host of other bird species and vegetation. Show more

Is it possible to take photographs up close of Snow Buntings at Gronant Sand Dunes?

Snow Buntings are very tame, and visitors can get up close to take photographs, making it one of the best locations to site these birds. However, you must always remember to respect the birds' natural living environment, which means not disturbing them excessively. A six-meter distance must also be maintained to ensure their wellbeing. Visitors should also remain quiet and hidden to prevent scaring the birds away. Show more

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