DCHP-1 Online
ortolan [< Cdn F < F; ult. < L hortolanus gardener] Rare 
n. an Arctic sparrow, Plectrophenax nivalis.
See also: snow bunting
- 1760 Lastly, you meet here, as well as in other parts of the island, with great plenty of game, particularly ortolans, and white rabbets of a most delicate taste.
- 1760 This little creature has a very charming outside, and for its relish well deserves the name of Ortolan.
- 1956 Snow Bunting [also known as] ortolan (This name, originally denoting a European species of bunting, a gastronomically famous bird, has been applied to a number of other species used for food. The present species was formerly sent to market in large numbers. Nfld.). . . .
- 1760 Lastly, you meet here, as well as in other parts of the island, with great plenty of game, particularly ortolans, and white rabbets of a most delicate taste.