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| Firecrest at Arundel 8th February 2011 |
Latin name
Regulus ignicapillus
Family
Warblers and allies (Sylviidae)
Overview
This tiny, restless jewel of a bird vies with the goldcrest for the title of the UK's smallest bird. It is now an established breeding species, although only in very small numbers. It differs from a goldcrest in having brighter green upperparts, whiter underparts and a fiery orange crown stripe with broad whitish eyebrow stripe, and below that a short black stripe through the eye. Its small breeding population makes it an Amber List species.
Where to see them
Breeds mainly in south-east England and passage birds are seen largely on the east and south coasts. Best looked for in bushes and trees, especially conifers, often in the company of goldcrests.
When to see them
All year round, but passage birds arrive in September and October, with a return movement in March and April.
What they eat
Insects and spiders
Hello all,
ReplyDeleteFirecrest is a very small passerine bird in the kinglet family. It breeds in most of temperate Europe and northwestern Africa, and is partially migratory with birds from central Europe wintering to the south and west of their breeding range. Thanks a lot!
Wildlife Photography