Redpoll (Carduelis cabaret)

There are four different types of redpoll in the UK, the most common of which is the lesser redpoll.

Our most common redpoll resident features a black and yellow streaked plumage with a dark brown forked tail. In contrast to these plain coloured streaks, the redpoll features a dash of red on its head.

This tiny bird bird is part of the finch family and is about the same size as a great tit. The lesser redpoll is best spotted over winter in the UK, where they can be seen hanging from the branches and twigs of birch and alder trees. It is easier to view them in winter on these deciduous trees when all the leaves have fallen.

Repoll nests are cup-shaped, often untidy and made from materials such as fine brittle twigs and grass. It is possible to see lesser redpoll nests in deciduous woodland in winter.

Breeding begins in May and lesser redpoll eggs are found to be glossy and smooth with a pale blue hue and small pinkish speckles. Incubation usually lasts between 10 - 13 days with around 11 - 14 fledge days.