Most Numerous Winter Guests

Photos: Arne Ader
Translation: Kaija Eistrat

Redpolls.

  Redpoll Carduelis flammea  
  
Yes – according to estimates for the last few winters, there are about half a million winter residents, quite a sizeable number, but it also depends on the food situation in the home countries of the birds. Flock-living, small birds, nearly always moving in largish groups. They feed on tree seeds, birch and alder catkins, often hanging in the thinnest twigs of the trees, feet upwards to the sky – a fine picture of acrobatics. Farmers have left a number of rape fields uncleared, such opportunities will not be overlooked by the redpolls.
As usual we will describe the exterior of these lovely birds. Both genders are grey-brown, noticeably streaked lengthwise on back and flanks. Proudly carmine-red forehead patch, small black chin patch. The breast and throat of male birds is reddish or pink, but the colour is influenced by the winter light as well as the presence of snow.

 

Redpoll.


 

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