The Common Redpoll is a small, streaky finch with a bright red forehead patch that breeds in the arctic and subarctic, irrupting into the northern US in variable numbers each winter. It can store seeds in a special esophageal pouch and eat them later while roosting, an adaptation for surviving long arctic nights. It is highly social, gathering in large flocks in birch and alder trees.
Habitat
Arctic and subarctic shrub tundra and birch forests
Diet
Birch and alder seeds, and small weed seeds
How common
Uncommon
Recent Common Redpoll sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a Common Redpoll? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant or animal and get an instant ID, rarity, and field notes — building your personal nature collection as you go.
Get Huck — free