At this time of year Redpolls are a species to look out for.
You may not see one all Winter or you could be lucky and just come across them one day, just like I did with these.
There was only a small flock and they (as many other species do at this time) were not wasting time and feeding away ferociously. The seeds of the dead Rosebay Willowherb is a great source of food for the Redpoll and quite a favourite of Goldfinch as well.
Having classed these as Lesser Redpolls, the first one below has some markings like a Mealy Redpoll on its back although its not really white enough, so its probably a Lesser.
I get confused with Redpolls, amongst many others I hear you say, well its a Redpoll, I just take the photographs :)
If I am not mistaken the Lesser Redpoll has been reclassified and merged with Common Redpoll. It was never considered a separate species here in North America. There is some discussion as to including Arctic Redpoll also, to form one species with all Redpoll morphs, thereby recognizing one species with numerous distinctive subspecies.
ReplyDeleteThanks David. I wish someone would sort it out.
DeleteSuperb set of images Roy.
ReplyDeleteLesser/Common?...they confuse me as well..best left to the 'experts' to sort them out. lol! [;o)
Thanks Trevor, its a minefield.
DeleteUpeat kuvat!
ReplyDeleteKiitos Anne.
DeleteEverytime I pass an alder tree I look up....never seen a redpoll!
ReplyDeleteThey are few and far between Simon.
DeleteGlad you found this little flock to photograph! I particularly liked photo #5 down! A very cute little bird.
ReplyDeleteThanks Mary.
DeleteHey Roy... I also like #5 and #3 from bottom, but as usual I like them all. Of course I am sure you have heard that on this side of the pond they are Common and Hoary Redpoll's. :) Had a flock of Common ones at the feeder a couple of winters ago, but the Hoary's if I saw one, I certainly would not dare say it was especially reporting to eBird since they are rare. Best have a real good picture for sure. LOL.
ReplyDeleteLucky You !
Grace
Thanks GG. Confusing aren't they.
DeleteRoy, your Redpolls look different than ours. I have not seen any here in Maine yet this year, but I did spot a White-winged crossbill in my yard recently. It was a Life Bird for me. We are expecting a snow storm later today, so my feeders are very busy this morning. I love the new look for your blog. Is it red for Valentine's Day? Love the photos!
ReplyDeleteThanks Kathie. The blog colour, not particularly for Valentine's day but my WIfe likes it so its got to be good.:)
DeleteLovely phoographs Roy, especially no. 1 and 5 where the colours of the brid matches the bachground very well, a beauty! I've never seen the lesser/common redpoll so it's a bit of a frustration ;-). But thereforI enjoyed your nice blog!
ReplyDeleteKind regards,
marianne
Thanks Marianne. Its definitely a Lesser rather than a Common/Meally.
DeleteAdmiration to your beautiful world.
ReplyDeleteI wish You all the best.
Greeting and hug.
From Japan, ruma ❃
Thank you so much Ruma.
DeleteHow beautiful!:-)))
ReplyDeleteAll the best!
Thanks Ana.
Delete