Common Redpoll (Acanthis flammea)

 

Synonyms: Carduelis flammea, Fringilla flammea, Redpoll

 

 

Common Redpoll occurs in northern Eurasia (as far south as the British Isles, the Alps, and Japan) and northern North America, including Baffin Island and southern Greenland. This species breeds in taiga, riverine tickets, and swamps to the treeline, extending into tundra where shrubby vegetation is available. From sea level to 1,350 m. It is a partial migrant in some areas, and resident elsewhere. Four subspecies are recognized. Acanthis flammea is brownish-grey with dark streaks and a red patch on its forehead, red or pink cheeks and breast, and streaked rump. This species is smaller, browner and more streaked than the similar Hoary Redpoll (e.g., see the two together). Some authorities (e.g., IUCN, and Birdlife International) treat Common and Hoary redpolls as one species, Acanthis flammea.

Breeding occurs from late April to August. Common Redpoll builds nests in low shrubs and stunted trees (spruce, alder, willow, etc.), 0.3-1.8 m above the ground; occasionally on driftwood or rock ledges. Clutch is 4-7 eggs; incubation 10-11 days. The young fledge at 10-12 days. This species feeds mainly on seeds and buds, especially of birch and alder, and small arthropods.

 

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