Common Firecrest
NameCommon Firecrest
Common NameCommon Firecrest
Scientific NameRegulus ignicapilla
FamilyRegulidae
Wingspan (cm)14.5
Length (cm)9.5
Weight (g)5.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are olive-green, contrasting with whitish underparts. The head features a prominent black eye-stripe, a white supercilium, and a bright orange (male) or yellow (female) crown stripe bordered by black. It also has a bronze patch on the side of the neck and two white wing bars.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a high-pitched, thin, and often repetitive 'zit-zit-zit' or 'sree-sree-sree'. The song is a series of high-pitched notes that increase in volume and speed, ending in a short trill.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, parks, gardens
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across much of temperate Europe, extending into northwest Africa. It is largely resident in the southern and western parts of its range, while northern and eastern populations may migrate south for winter.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Olive-green back, White underparts, Black eye-stripe, White supercilium, Bright orange/yellow crown stripe bordered by black, Two white wing bars
Description
The Common Firecrest is a tiny, active passerine bird, often seen flitting through the canopy of trees. It is known for its distinctive head pattern and high-pitched calls. This species is one of Europe's smallest birds.
