
Photo: Francis C. Franklin · CC BY-SA 3.0 (May be cropped or resized)
Regulus regulus
Diet
Small insects and spiders
Habitat
Coniferous and mixed woodland
Range
Much of the Palearctic, Macaronesia and Iceland
Size
9cm
Wingspan
14cm
Weight
5–6g
The goldcrest is a minute passerine named for the bright crown stripe that gives both its English and scientific names a royal association. Its upperparts are greenish brown, while the crown carries a yellow centre bordered by black; males also show orange in the crest. A fine, pointed bill suits the capture of tiny prey among foliage. At roughly nine centimetres long and five to six grams, it is exceptionally small, yet its patterned head makes a close view unmistakable. (Wikipedia, general species account)
Goldcrests spend much of the day moving through branches and foliage in search of small insects and spiders. They are especially associated with conifers, although mixed woodland is also used, and in winter they often join flocks of tits. Northern and eastern breeders migrate south, while other populations remain resident. During severe cold, birds may roost communally in dense foliage or snow holes, reducing heat loss, and they rely heavily on fat accumulated during daylight to survive long winter nights. (Wikipedia, general species account)