About Redpoll - Redpoll Bird Facts & Information

About Redpoll Birds

This Passerine Bird belongs to the Finch family. It is a small garden bird with a distinctive red forehead patch that extends down to its breast and a black bib. Their streaked brown back and wings contrast their white underside. 

Both the Common Redpolls and the Lesser Redpolls are similar in appearance - there are just some subtle differences in size and colouration. 

A social bird, the Redpoll is usually seen in large flocks and in the winter months, you may see this little bird gathering in groups around a food source. Used for communication within flocks, listen out for the Redpolls musical and twittering song. 

They may only be small in size, but these birds have bundles of character and can be seen in gardens hanging upside down off of branches to reach seeds. 

Redpolls are not considered a threatened species, but sometimes depending on external factors such as weather and habitat loss the Redpoll population may fluctuate.  There are three species of Redpoll - the Lesser Redpoll, the Common, or Mealy Redpoll (Acanthis flammea) and the Arctic Redpoll.

Do Redpolls migrate?

Yes, Redpolls do migrate. In the UK, Redpolls are a winter visitor seen from October to March. They migrate from their breeding grounds in Northern Europe to the UK in search of milder weather conditions and food sources. 

The Redpoll will then head back to its breeding grounds once the weather begins to warm up. 

What do Redpolls look like?

This small, finch like UK birds have very distinctive markings. They usually measure about 11 - 14 CM in length and are very little birds with a weight of only 12-16 grams. They have a streaked brown plumage on their upper body and a pale underside.

One of the most recognisable features of the Redpoll and often used for identification, and what gives them their name, is the small red patch (or ‘poll) on their forehead. During the breeding season, the red patch is more prominent in males and may be less noticeable in females and young Redpolls. 

Their small black patch on their chin contrasts with the paler throat, and these birds typically have two white wing bars that are visible when they are flying. Adapted for feeding on seeds, their bills are small and conical. 

Is a Redpoll Bird Rare?

In the UK, the Redpoll is not considered a rare bird. The main two separate species of this bird that we have in the UK are the Common Redpoll and the Lesser Redpoll. The Lesser Redpoll is more widespread and relatively common during the winter months. 

The common Redpoll is less frequently observed and may be considered more rare. 

Where do Redpolls live?

Across regions of Europe (including the UK), Asia, and North America, Redpolls are found in a variety of habitats. 

Most commonly, they are found in boreal or northern forests - especially if there is an abundance of coniferous trees such as pine, birch trees and fir. These forests are the perfect nesting sites and have all of the food sources they need - including seeds from trees. 

Redpolls are also found in open woodlands like mixed forests and at the edge of a wood. These provide a combination of trees, shrubs, and open spaces where they can find food and nesting sites. 

During the winter, when they migrate to the UK, they may be found in more open habitats such as fields, meadows and farmland. They feed on grass and weed seeds in these spaces. 

In some areas, Redpolls also inhabit urban environments - during the winter they’ll seek out bird feeders and bird tables in these areas. 

How long do Redpolls live?

Depending on various factors such as disease and habitat quality - Redpolls live around two to three years in the wild. The oldest recorded Redpoll lived until the age of seven!

Redpolls Breeding Season 

In their northern breeding range, the Redpolls season begins from April to June. 

During this time, the male Redpoll will court the female through rituals and displays. The male will display elaborate singing and courtship behaviours to attract a mate. 

Once they have formed a pair they will build the nest, the female will lay a clutch of 4 to 6 eggs that are pale blue with brown speckles. For 10 - 14 days, the female will incubate the eggs. 

Once the chicks are born, both parents will take turns to feed and care for the chicks with the young Redpolls leaving the nest after around 14 days.

Where do Redpolls Nest?

They build their nests in a variety of locations, including coniferous trees, shrubs, and sometimes on the ground, using materials such as grass, twigs, moss, and feathers.

What do Redpolls Eat?

Redpolls, like many finches, are primarily seed eaters, with their diet varying throughout the year to adapt to seasonal changes. During the colder months, when food sources are scarce, they become regular visitors to bird feeders and bird tables. Sunflower seeds and hearts, nyjer (thistle) seeds, and millet are among their favourites, providing the essential fats and proteins they need to maintain their energy levels in the chill of winter.

In their natural habitat, Redpolls forage for seeds from a variety of plants, including birch, alder, and spruce. Their dainty beaks are perfectly adapted for extracting seeds from the cones of coniferous trees, a task they perform with remarkable dexterity. They're also known to snack on buds, catkins, and even the occasional insect, adding protein to their diet during the breeding season.

Come springtime, eagerly enjoy the fresh vegetation, including grass seeds, weed seeds, and the tender shoots of plants. 

During their breeding season, Redpolls shift their focus to protein rich foods to fuel the demands of parenthood. Insects become a vital component of their diet as they gather these protein packed treats to feed their hungry chicks. Spiders, caterpillars, and other arthropods are plucked from leaves and branches, providing essential nourishment for growing chicks.

Redpoll Predators 

One of the most common predators of Redpolls is birds of prey such as hawks and owls, they pose a constant threat. These aerial hunters can swoop down from above, catching unsuspecting Redpolls.

With their agility and stealth, ground dwelling predators, like domestic cats, can easily sneak up on Redpolls as they forage for seeds among the underbrush.

How to Attract Redpolls into Your Garden

To encourage Redpolls into your garden - make sure you are offering the right wild bird seeds. These seed loving birds have a particular fondness for nyjer (thistle) seeds, which are rich in oils and proteins, making them an ideal energy source, especially during the colder months. Invest in a quality seed feeder and place it in a visible and accessible location, preferably near shrubs or trees where Redpolls can perch and observe their surroundings before eating.

In addition to nyjer seeds, Redpolls also enjoy a variety of other seeds, including sunflower seeds and millet. 

These birds prefer areas with dense vegetation, such as shrubs and small trees, where they can find cover from predators and shelter from the elements. Planting native shrubs and flowering plants not only enhances the beauty of your garden but also provides valuable food and nesting resources for Redpolls and other wildlife.

Consider installing a birdbath or shallow fountain in your garden, ensuring that it's kept clean and filled with fresh water at all times. Redpolls will appreciate the opportunity to bathe and drink.

Five Facts about Redpolls  

1. Redpolls are known for their winter visits to bird feeders, where they eagerly feast on seeds. These charming little finches travel from their breeding grounds in northern regions to seek out food and shelter in milder climates during the colder months, delighting backyard bird watchers with their presence.

    

2. One of the most distinctive features of Redpolls is their plumage. While their overall appearance may seem subtle at first glance, a closer look reveals a striking combination of colours and patterns. From the streaked brownish-grey feathers on their backs to the small red patch on their foreheads (more prominent in males), Redpolls are a delightful blend of understated elegance and vibrant accents.

    

3. Redpolls are highly social birds, often forming flocks, especially during the winter months. These flocks can range in size from just a few individuals to dozens or even hundreds of birds, creating a lively and bustling atmosphere wherever they go. Their gregarious nature adds to the charm of these delightful finches as they chirp and flutter about in unison.

    

4. Watch a flock of Redpolls at a bird feeder, and you'll witness a display of impressive acrobatics. These agile little birds are adept at clinging to feeders and branches while they dine, using their tiny feet and nimble movements to access their favourite seeds.

    

5. Redpolls undertake remarkable journeys during their annual migrations, travelling thousands of miles between their breeding and wintering grounds. Some Redpoll populations migrate southward from their breeding grounds in northern Europe and Scandinavia to spend the winter in the UK, while others journey even farther to reach destinations in North America.