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Latin name

Regulus regulus

Family

Warblers and allies (Sylviidae)

Overview

The goldcrest is the UK's smallest songbird and is dull green above and buff white below with a distinctive orange or yellow crown stripe. It is a widespread species, closely associated with coniferous forest. In winter it will join with flocks of tits and other woodland species. In the UK it occurs widely save for in treeless areas such as on the Fens and in northern Scotland. Its population has suffered declines recently, hence its inclusion on the Amber List. It suffers in very cold winters and the recent successive mild winters are a cause for optimism.

Where to see them

Found almost wherever there are trees and bushes, especially conifers. They are also found in broadleaf woodland, but only where there are conifers nearby, and may also take up residence in suburban parks and large gardens. In autumn large numbers of migrants arrive and can be found in coastal bushes, particularly on the east and south coasts.

When to see them

All year round.

What they eat

Insects

Estimated numbers

* UK breeding is the number of pairs breeding annually. UK wintering is the number of individuals present from October to March. UK passage is the number of individuals passing through on migration in spring and/or autumn.

Distribution

In the UK

UK wide

Please note that the map is only intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations.

Audio is from commercial recordings Bird Songs and Calls of Britain and Europe on 4 CDs or Bird Sounds of Europe & North-west Africa, copyright WildSounds & CEBA (www.wildsounds.com, (UK) +44 (0) 1263 741100)

2 illustrations 12

Goldcrest - adult male

Goldcrest - juvenile

Similar birds

Firecrest

Wren