Sirhowy Hill Woodlands

Scientific name: Regulus regulus

Goldcrest

Goldcrests are tiny birds of conifer woodland, scrub, parks and gardens. As well as our own resident birds, large numbers arrive on the east coast during autumn migration, and are often found in bushes on sand dunes. It is widespread in the UK, apart from in areas which are treeless such as fens and northern Scotland. In winter, it will join other tits and woodland birds in flocks. Although it is our smallest songbird, the Goldcrest can lay up to 12 eggs in a clutch, which is about one and a half times the adult female’s bodyweight.

How to identify the Goldcrest?

A tiny little bird, the Goldcrest is olive-green above, buff-white below, with a double white wingbar. The male has a bright orange crown, edged with black; while the female has a yellow crown. The similar Firecrest is a much rarer bird, with a black eyestripe and broad white eyebrow stripe.

How can I help?

You can help too: volunteer for Sirhowy Valley Woodlands and you could be involved in everything from traditional forest crafts to raising awareness about birds.

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Statistics

Scientific Name

Regulus regulus

Location

England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland

Population

Widespread across the UK

Other Wildlife