Keep your eyes peeled for the UK’s smallest bird

Weighing in at an average of just 6g – that’s the equivalent of about six paperclips – Goldcrests are the UK’s smallest birds, says Dorking & District Local RSPB Group. But what they lack in size, they definitely make up for in colour, with the striking flash of golden feathers on their head.

These dainty birds spend most of their time flitting around the branches of trees, looking for insects, and are particularly at home amongst conifers and in mixed woodland. You could spot them in parks and gardens with large trees too. Remember to listen out for their high-pitched ‘tsee-tsee’ call.

There are Goldcrests in the UK all year round, but autumn and winter are particularly good times to catch a glimpse of them, as their numbers are boosted by birds arriving from Scandinavia and Russia. In the past, people found it so hard to believe that tiny Goldcrests could fly across the North Sea that they thought these mini migrants must hitch a ride on the back of Woodcocks, which reach the UK at about the same time. As a result, they become known as ‘Woodcock pilots’!

Nowadays, thanks to ringing studies, we know that these amazing little birds can, and do, make the journey unaided. A truly impressive feat.

See more on their activities and photos or if you’re interested in joining below:
Facebook: RSPB Dorking and District
Instagram: @rspb_dorking
Website: https://group.rspb.org.uk/dorkinganddistrict/

Goldcrest: Image courtesy RSPB images