Scottish Crossbill
NameScottish Crossbill
Common NameScottish Crossbill
Scientific NameLoxia scotica
FamilyFringillidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)45
Plumage DetailsAdult males are predominantly brick-red to reddish-orange, particularly on the head, breast, and rump, with darker wings and tail. Females are duller, exhibiting yellowish-green plumage, especially on the rump and underparts. Juveniles are streaky brown.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive, deep, resonant 'chip-chip' or 'jip-jip' call, often given in flight. This call is a key feature used to distinguish it from other crossbill species.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Scottish Highlands, primarily inhabiting native Caledonian pine forests and commercial conifer plantations.
Identifying FeaturesCrossed mandibles (bill tips cross over), Robust finch build, Reddish-orange plumage in males, Yellowish-green plumage in females, Deep, resonant 'chip' call, Specialized diet of conifer seeds
Description
The Scottish Crossbill is a medium-sized finch endemic to the Scottish Highlands, distinguished by its unique crossed bill adapted for extracting seeds from conifer cones. Males display striking reddish-orange plumage, while females are duller yellowish-green. They are typically found foraging high in the canopy of coniferous forests.
