Yellowhammer

The Yellowhammer is/was among the most common birds in Sweden. Living in an urbanized area I find it hard to believe. You almost never see any around here, but once you get outside of Stockholm they are common. On the other hand they are in serious decline across Europe, so I guess that might contribute as well.

To me it's a winter bird, although I know it is wrong. It might be the yellow color, contrasting against the pale colors of winter that lead me to associate them with winter. On the other hand their distinct song, counting to seven and spelling out "A little bit of bread and no cheese.", is a clear sign of spring and early summer.


Whatever the reason, it is a very nice and recognizable bird in Sweden, Europe and Asia. Too bad they are on the decline...

Bird of the day:
Gulsparv -- Goldammer -- Yellowhammer (bunting) -- Bruant jaune -- Emberiza citrinella