The Redpoll is a small streaky brown finch usually located by its loud rattling call. Redpolls can usually be identified by the little red spot on the forehead which gives them their name. In females, however, this red colour can be indistinct and in juveniles it can be lacking altogether. Such birds would have to be identified by their small size, chunky shape and streaky dark brown plumage, lacking the greens and yellows of Serins or Siskins or the white in the wing and tail of a Linnet or Twite.

Breeds in coniferous and birch woodlands. Winters in birch, willows and alders.

Common over much of Britain, except in the Northern Isles, south-west England and westerm Wales, breeding in a wide variety of habitats from coniferous plantations to scrub. Also occurs as a passage migrant and winter visitor in variable numbers.

A widespread breeding bird in Britain and northern Europe, occurring throughout the rest of Europe in winter. Although they can be numerous, they are often highly local and therefore can be easily missed.

©BirdGuides 1999