A vibrant painted bunting, typically found in the southern U.S., unexpectedly chose to spend its Christmas holiday in Bayfield, New Brunswick, heading north instead of its usual southward migration path. Alain Clavette, an experienced birder, has had the rare opportunity to spot this colorful bird on four occasions in the province.
The bird was first sighted at a local bird feeder by a resident, who then alerted the local birding community. Birders quickly gathered in the area to catch a glimpse of this unusual visitor. Clavette mentioned that the bird frequents the feeder for nourishment before retreating into the forest, sometimes keeping enthusiasts waiting for up to 40 minutes before reappearing.
Speculations suggest that the painted bunting may have engaged in reverse migration, potentially due to being disoriented by a windstorm. Flying back to the southern U.S. or Mexico at this time is deemed impractical due to the vast distance and harsh winter conditions. Therefore, the bird is likely to remain in the region where food is readily available, increasing its chances of surviving the Canadian winter, albeit threats from predators like hawks and cats loom.
Clavette, respecting the bird’s privacy and the property owner’s wishes, refrained from disclosing the exact location. He, along with others, constructed a brush pile to provide shelter and offered guidance to ensure the bird’s well-being. Jim Wilson, a former president of the New Brunswick bird records committee, highlighted the rarity of the painted bunting’s presence in the province, with approximately 20 documented sightings over nearly four decades.
Wilson recounted previous instances of painted buntings in the region, emphasizing the community’s hope for the bird’s successful winter survival and eventual return southward in the spring. The painted bunting’s resilience and adaptability at bird feeders have captured the interest and support of many, rooting for its well-being amidst the winter challenges.