Snow-bunting

(Zool.) The Plectrophanes nival is. Abird of the Bunting group, distinguished from the true buntings by the long and nearly straight claw of the hind toe, in this resembling the larks. There is also an approach to larks in habits; there is a similar ease and celerity in running along the ground, and the song is very different from that of any of the true buntings. The S.-B. abounds in summer in all parts of the Arctic regions, and in winter in more southern countries of Europe, Asia, and America. Linnæus says it is the only living creature that has been scen 2,000 feet above the limits of perpetual snow on the mountains of Lapland. It is generally very fat, and is highly esteemed for the table. [s. 834]