Goldcrest
NameGoldcrest
Common NameGoldcrest
Scientific NameRegulus regulus
FamilyRegulidae
Wingspan (cm)14.5
Length (cm)9
Weight (g)5.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are olive-green, underparts are pale greyish-white. The head features a black eye-stripe, a white supercilium, and a prominent crown stripe: bright yellow in females, and orange-centred yellow in males, both bordered by black. Wings show two white wing-bars.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a very high-pitched, fine 'see-see-see' often given in a rapid series. The song is a rapid, high-pitched 'sisi-sisi-sisi-sisi-twee-twee-twee' that ascends slightly in pitch.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across much of Europe and temperate Asia. It is a resident bird in many parts of its range, though northern populations undertake migratory movements.
Identifying FeaturesSmallest European bird, Olive-green upperparts, Yellow/orange crown stripe bordered by black, White wing-bars, Restless, active behavior
Description
The Goldcrest is Europe's smallest bird, characterized by its olive-green upperparts, pale underparts, and a distinctive yellow or orange-centred crown stripe bordered by black. It is a highly active and restless species, constantly flitting through foliage in search of small insects.
