The Ruby-crowned Kinglet is a tiny, active songbird, primarily olive-green with a prominent white eye-ring. Males display a striking, retractable ruby-red crown patch, often only visible when agitated. These restless birds forage ceaselessly among the foliage of conifers.
Where to spot
Breeds across the boreal forests of North America, including Alaska, Canada, and the western United States. Winters in the southern United States, Mexico, and Central America. Found in coniferous and mixed forests, often in dense spruce, fir, or pine.
How to spot
Listen for its distinctive, surprisingly loud song. Look for constant, rapid movements as it flits through branches, often hovering to snatch insects. Pay attention to the subtle white eye-ring and, for males, the flash of a ruby-red crown.
When to spot
Best observed during spring and fall migration in broader North America. During breeding season (late spring/early summer), they are found in northern forests. In winter, they are present in southern evergreen habitats. Most active in early mornings.
Where to spot
Breeds across the boreal forests of North America, including Alaska, Canada, and the western United States. Winters in the southern United States, Mexico, and Central America. Found in coniferous and mixed forests, often in dense spruce, fir, or pine.
How to spot
Listen for its distinctive, surprisingly loud song. Look for constant, rapid movements as it flits through branches, often hovering to snatch insects. Pay attention to the subtle white eye-ring and, for males, the flash of a ruby-red crown.
When to spot
Best observed during spring and fall migration in broader North America. During breeding season (late spring/early summer), they are found in northern forests. In winter, they are present in southern evergreen habitats. Most active in early mornings.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Despite its small size, the Ruby-crowned Kinglet possesses a surprisingly loud and complex song, often beginning with high-pitched notes and escalating into a series of richer, whistled phrases.
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