Goldcrest

(Regulus regulus)

Distribution/habitat

In Europe, the goldcrest can be found almost everywhere except for large parts of Spain and Eastern Europe. More northern areas, however, are left when winter arrives. The goldcrest preferably inhabits coniferous forests, only during migration is it less attached to these. In ÖTZTAL NATURE PARK it is quite common, provided coniferous forests or spruce groves are available.

Description/characteristics

With a size of 9 cm, a wingspan of only 13-15 cm and weighing just 5 g, the goldcrest is the smallest and lightest bird in Europe. The plumage is primarily grey green. Notable features are the white wing bars and the stripe on the crown. The genders can also be distinguished by the crown: on the male it’s orange and on the female it’s yellow. The chicks still lack this stripe, their head is plain grey. The eggs of the goldcrest are inconspicuously whitish with light brown spots.

Special features

Despite its minimal weight (less than a 20-Cent coin) the goldcrest is capable of crossing gusty seas when migrating.

Endangerment/protection

The global population of goldcrest is currently not considered endangered. The biggest threat to this bird species is presented by long and cold winter periods, which can drastically reduce the populations.

Literature

DIERSCHKE, V. (2017): Kosmos – Naturführer. Welcher Vogel - ist das?. - Franckh-Kosmos Verlags-GmbH & Co. KG, Stuttgart: 256 pp