Firecrest
Image: Богданович Светлана (cc-by-nc)
NameFirecrest
Common NameFirecrest
Scientific NameRegulus ignicapilla
FamilyRegulidae
Wingspan (cm)14.5
Length (cm)9.5
Weight (g)5.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are bright olive-green, contrasting with whitish underparts. The head features a prominent black eye-stripe, a bright white supercilium, and a striking crown stripe that is bronze-orange in males and yellow in females, bordered by black. Two distinct white wing-bars are also present.
Vocalization / CallA high-pitched, thin 'zit-zit-zit' or 'sree-sree-sree' call, often accelerating into a short, rapid song.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsconiferous forest, mixed forest, parks, gardens
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across temperate Europe, extending into northwest Africa. Resident in much of its range, with some northern populations undertaking short-distance migrations.
Identifying FeaturesSmallest European bird, Bright olive-green upperparts, Black eye-stripe, White supercilium, Orange/yellow crown stripe bordered by black, Two white wing-bars
Description
The Firecrest is one of Europe's smallest birds, characterized by its vibrant head pattern and restless, active foraging behavior. It constantly flits through foliage, searching for small insects and spiders.
