ruby crowned kinglet
1. Bird Name
English Name: Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Scientific Name: Regulus calendula
2. Appearance
The Ruby-crowned Kinglet is a diminutive bird marked by a strikingly radiant red crest on the top of the male’s head, which is usually concealed unless the bird is agitated or excited. This charming bird sports a predominately olive-green body teamed up with a vibrant yellow-olive hue on its wings and tail. It has a finely pointed beak adequate for gleaning insects off foliage.
The eye rings of this bird are powerfully white, enhancing its darting, dark eyes. The female is similar to the male in appearance, with identical coloration but lacking the namesake ruby crest.
3. Size
Ruby-crowned Kinglets are incredibly tiny birds averaging around 8.9 to 11.5 cm in length. They possess a relatively broad wingspan for their size, ranging from 16 to 18 cm. Despite their small stature, they seldom weigh more than 5 to 10 grams.
4. Habitat & Distribution
These birds are widely distributed covering North America, Canada, and Mexico. Found specifically inhabiting coniferous forests, during the breeding season, one can spot them in the cooler regions of the mountainous West and the far North. In winters, they descend to warmer, mixed woodlands and shrubs of the southern United States.
5. Interesting Facts
Ruby-crowned Kinglets are renowned for their high metabolic rates, so much so that they must consume a substantial part of their body weight in insects each day to survive the cold winter nights. Though petite, they are big on personality and will hold their own against larger birds within their territory. Fond of high altitude, they are even found in Mexico’s tallest peak, the volcano Pico de Orizaba.
6. Diet
These birds are avid insectivores. Their diet includes a medley of insects, spiders, and their eggs and larvae. While they feed primarily on minute arthropods, in winters, they occasionally derive nutrients from seeds and berries.
7. Behavior & Sounds
Ruby-crowned Kinglets are perpetually on the move. Their signature flickering wing movements make them easily recognizable. Remarkably, their vocal prowess overpowers their tiny stature. The males produce a complex song full of rapid high notes and trills, while their call is a low pitched ‘jit-jit.’ They are solitary during breeding but join flocks during the winter.
8. Conservation Status
The conservation status of Ruby-crowned Kinglets, according to the IUCN Red List, is of ‘Least Concern.’ They are abundant and widespread across their range.
9. Lifespan
In the wild, these birds usually live for around two years. However, exceptions have been seen with a lifespan of up to 6.5 years.
10. Additional Notes
While in English it’s named for its ruby crown, in Spanish this bird is known as “reinita sietecolores,” or “seven-colored little queen.” They are beneficial for humans, as they consume a large number of insects, including pests. Plus, their energy and chirping song provide a vital sense of connection with nature for those who encounter them.
