Wonderful Redpoll

Lesser Redpoll are a common sight on the Foxglove feeders at this time of year. They are a highly mobile species known to travel long distances. Members of the Swaledale Ringing Group have recently caught a control individual (ringed by another ringing group). This stunning male was first ringed in 2021 in Hampshire, over 200 miles away!

Ringers have also been fortunate to catch a Common Redpoll amongst the Lesser Redpoll. Previously considered to be one species, these have now been split into two separate species. Also known as the Mealy Redpoll, the Common Redpoll is a winter visitor to the UK and can be distinguished by its larger size and paler plumage. 

Both species feed on seeds, particularly birch and alder, and will form large flocks in winter often mixed in with Siskins.