Check a Rainbow of Colors Off Your Birding Life List

Uncommon sighting of the beautiful Painted Bunting at Kiptopeke State Park is the talk of the town this week. 

Chief Ranger, Andrew Philpot, was able to snap a few pictures (above) over the weekend while getting the campgrounds ready for Friday's opening day. The colored feathers against the backdrop of the white snow really show off this little bird's bright plumage. 

Audubon shares

Sometimes called the "Nonpareil," meaning "unrivalled," a fair way to describe the unbelievable colors of the male Painted Bunting. This species is locally common in the Southeast (*but not Virginia), around brushy areas and woodland edges. It is often secretive, staying low in dense cover. However, males sing their bright warbling songs from higher in the trees, partly hidden among foliage or sometimes out in the sun on an exposed perch...Read more here.  * Inserted by blogger

If you want to check Painted Bunting off your birding life list, then pack your bags and head over to Kiptopeke State Park on Virginia's Eastern Shore. However, check the weather and park website first.  A bit of uncooperative weather is on the horizon that might impact travel.

Kiptopeke State Park sits on the eastern edge of the Atlantic Migratory Flyway. The park features coastal forests and Chesapeake Bay shorelines that are great for birding. The park also features a Hawk Observatory Platform.

Learn more about the Painted Bunting and why it is so rarely seen in Virginia here. If you would like to hear the Painted Bunting's birdsong click here.

Be sure to make your reservation today by calling the Virginia State Parks Customer Service Center at 1-800-933-PARK. Kiptopeke features 6-bedroom lodges, a yurt, rental RVs, and a campground. It also has a 24-hour lighted fishing pier that is a fantastic for fishing, but also great for birding. Bring your zoom lens and share you photos with us on Facebook!

Who knows how long this stunning Painted Bunting will hang around Kiptopeke State Park so make plans to visit soon and check this beautiful bird off your life list!