Arctic Redpoll

The Arctic redpoll, known as the hoary redpoll in North America, is a small bird of the finch family, Fringillidae. This species, Acanthis hornemanni, is a dainty creature with a delicate bill and a distinctive appearance. It is paler than its cousin, the common redpoll, and can be recognized by its unstreaked pale rump and uniformly pale vent area. The Greenland subspecies is particularly large and pale, with males sometimes referred to as "snowballs." Both subspecies exhibit a black bib, an orangish forehead patch, and two light-colored wing stripes. Females tend to have more streaking on their breasts, sides, and rumps but maintain a generally pale coloration. Adults measure approximately 12 to 14 centimeters in length and weigh between 12 to 16 grams, with a wingspan ranging from 20 to 25 centimeters.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Arctic redpoll, look for the small beak, white rump, and often yellowish rather than grey-brown tones in the plumage. The black bib and orangish forehead are also key features. In flight, observe the two light-colored wing stripes that are characteristic of this species.

Habitat

The Arctic redpoll breeds in the tundra birch forests, a habitat that provides the resources necessary for its survival.

Distribution

This bird has a circumpolar distribution, with two subspecies: A. h. hornemanni in Greenland and parts of Canada, and A. h. exilipes found in the tundra of northern North America and the Palearctic.

Behaviour

The Arctic redpoll is known for its partial migratory patterns, often moving southward in November and returning north in March and April. It is a sociable bird that sometimes travels with common redpolls during migration.

Song & calls

The Arctic redpoll communicates with a repertoire of calls and songs, which are essential for social interaction, especially during the breeding season.

Breeding

Breeding occurs from May to July. The nest is a carefully constructed affair, placed low in a tree or bush, with layers of twigs, root fibers, juniper bark, lichens, down, willow buds, and reindeer hair. The female lays 3 to 7 pale blue eggs speckled with light reddish markings, which she incubates. After about 11 days, the eggs hatch, and the young fledge roughly 13 days later.

Similar Species

The Arctic redpoll can be confused with the common redpoll but can be distinguished by its paler plumage and the lack of streaking on the rump and vent.

Diet and Feeding

This species primarily feeds on seeds, showing a particular fondness for those of alder and birch trees.

Conservation status

The Arctic redpoll is currently classified as Secure by NatureServe, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.