Latin name

Carduelis cabaret

Family

Finches (Fringillidae)

Overview

The lesser redpoll is a small brown streaked finch with a distinctive red forehead, small black bib and, in breeding males, red upper chests. This contrasts with largely pale under parts (streaked on the flanks). Its UK breeding population has declined and although it is recovering, it is on the Amber List. They are often found in flocks, occasionally with siskins. It has recently been split from the common or mealy redpoll, a larger and paler species.

Where to see them

A widespread breeding species in Scotland, northern and eastern England and Wales. It is less common in central, southern and south-west England as a breeding species, but does occur in these places in winter. Look in birch and alder woods.

When to see them

All year round, but commoner in the north in summer and in the south in winter.

What they eat

Seeds, especially birch and alder

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

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

2 illustrations 12

Lesser redpoll

Feeding upside-down

Similar birds

Mealy redpoll

Twite

Linnet