Ruby-crowned Kinglet (Regulus calendula)
uses bird feeders
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songbird's song
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FIELD MARKS
There are two species of kinglets in British Columbia. These birds are among
the smallest of all songbirds. They are highly energetic. The Ruby-crowned
Kinglet is a greyish-olive-coloured bird with a short, pointed bill. It
has olive underparts and white wing bars. The male Ruby-crowned Kinglet
has a patch of red feathers on the top of its head which are normally hidden,
but stand up when the bird becomes excited. Kinglets are known for their
habit of nervously twitching their wings and being extremely loud for their
size. Approximate length: 10 cm
FOOD
This kinglet relies heavily on insects for food. It also eats spiders and
eggs of insects, as well as seeds and berries in the winter. It actively
forages from the treetops down to the lower brush.
HABITAT
The Ruby-crowned Kinglet lives in coniferous and mixed forests and woodlands.
It migrates to milder areas of British Columbia and North America for the
winter season.
NESTING
Nests are usually built by females high up in coniferous trees. They are
large and spherical in shape with an opening in the top and either suspended
from a branch or on a branch. The nests are made of moss, lichen, bark strips,
rootlets and conifer needles and lined with feathers. The female lays 7-8
whitish eggs with brown spots at the larger end.
STATUS
Common and widespread, but populations are sensitive to harsh winters.
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Family REGULIDAE: Kinglets
