About The Redpolls: UK Finch Species Guide

The Redpolls are a family of three distinctive finch species within the Fringillidae family, closely related to familiar birds such as the Greenfinch and Goldfinch. Recognised by their characteristic red markings on the head, these hardy birds primarily inhabit the northern woodlands of Europe and other boreal regions.

Their diet consists mainly of seeds, making a good British or foreign finch seed mix an excellent staple. They particularly enjoy seeds like blue maw, white and brown perilla, and niger seed. Around breeding time, they benefit from insect paste or live food supplements. Grit or cuttlefish should always be available for digestion. Eggfood is appreciated year-round, and while they may eat weeds like coltsfoot, dandelion, chickweed, sow thistle, sorrel, and ragwort, it's crucial to source these from chemical-free areas to ensure safety.

Some bird keepers supplement drinking water with carophyll red to enhance the natural red colouration in the head and breast, especially when preparing birds for showing.

Arctic Redpoll

The Arctic Redpoll (Carduelis hornemanni) is the rarest of the three species seen in UK aviculture. Native to the tundra birch forests of Greenland, Canada, and Eurasia, it includes two subspecies differentiated by location. While some remain resident year-round, others migrate southwards in winter, often mixing with the Common Redpolls.

This species is generally paler than the Common Redpoll, with an unstreaked rump patch and pale vent area. Greenland subspecies are larger, often showing yellower and orangish hues in their plumage. Typically, these birds measure 12-14 cm in length and weigh 12-16 grams.

In the wild, Arctic Redpolls breed between May and July. They build nests low in trees or bushes, constructed from twigs, root fibres, bark fragments, and lined with down and reindeer hair. Females lay 3-7 eggs, incubated for around 11 days, with chicks fledging at approximately 13 days.

Common Redpoll

The Common Redpoll (Carduelis flammea), often referred to in the UK as the Mealy Redpoll (a subspecies), is larger than its relatives. It inhabits North America and Eurasia with subspecies in Iceland and Greenland. Although migrating south in winter, these birds resist cold well, with migration primarily motivated by food availability.

Measuring approximately 11.4-14 cm long, the Common Redpoll features brown-grey feathers with dark streaks and a vivid red forehead patch. Males may also show red on their breast; the rump is streaked. They have yellow beaks and brown legs.

They build low nests with similar materials as the Arctic Redpoll and lay 3-7 eggs, incubated by the female for about 11 days with fledging occurring 13 days after hatching.

Lesser Redpoll

The Lesser Redpoll (Carduelis flammea cabaret) is native to Britain and was once considered a subspecies of the Common Redpoll until recent taxonomic revisions recognised it as a distinct species.

This smaller species measures 11.5-12.5 cm with a wingspan of 20-22.5 cm and weighs 9-12 grams. Males display brown plumage with darker streaks, a red forehead, black chin, and pink on the breast and face. The flanks show buff colour with streaks, and the belly is whitish. Females lack the pink breast and have less pronounced streaking.

In captivity, breeders have developed beautiful colour mutations such as brown, Isabel, pastel, and agate variations.

Originally found across Great Britain, Ireland, and the Alps, the Lesser Redpoll has expanded across central and northern Europe, including countries along the North Sea coast like France, Germany, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, as well as Poland, Slovakia, and northern Romania. Short-distance migration occurs in winter, with alpine birds moving lower and British birds occasionally crossing to mainland Europe. It also inhabits introduced populations in New Zealand and Macquarie Island in Australia.

Preferring open woodland, scrubland, dunes, and farmland, the expansion of conifer planting has aided its spread.

Social and gregarious, redpolls live in flocks both wild and captive. They pair in late winter and often nest colonially. The female constructs a cup-shaped nest in shrubs or trees using twigs and plant stems lined with grass, moss, or leaves. Clutches range from 2-7 eggs, incubated by the female for 12-15 days, while both parents feed the chicks which fledge between 9-15 days old.

Redpoll Care and Keeping

Redpolls can adapt well to outdoor aviaries in the UK, tolerating cold climates due to their natural northern origins. They can also adjust to large indoor cages if hand-reared from a young age, forming trusting and curious relationships with their owners. Over time, they may overcome their natural fear of humans and accept food from the hand.

Though their song is not as melodic as canaries or greenfinches, it remains pleasant and relatively quiet, making them suitable companions for those sensitive to noise.

They thrive in mixed aviaries and are peaceful cohabitants with other finch species.

Conclusion

Redpolls are fascinating, hardy finches that bring delightful character to birdkeeping. Whether outdoors or indoors, with patience and proper care they reward keepers with their unique personality and sociability. For those interested in British native birds or small finches, their care and breeding present a rewarding experience.

For those interested in acquiring finches, consider obtaining them from reputable breeders and sources who prioritise bird health and responsible breeding practices to ensure the welfare of these delicate creatures.

Explore more about finches and other birds for sale over at finches for sale.