Golden-crowned Kinglet

Overview

The golden-crowned kinglet (Regulus satrapa) is a very small songbird in the family Regulidae that lives throughout much of North America. It is a widespread migratory species, although some populations in coastal regions and the southern parts of their range are permanent residents.

Identification

• Olive-grey upperparts with white underparts, thin bills, and short tails.
• Distinctive yellow crown surrounded by black, with an orange patch in the centre for adult males.
• One of the smallest passerines in North America, measuring 8 to 11 cm in length and weighing approximately 6.1 g.
• Produces a series of high-pitched calls on a single note.

Habitat

Breeding habitat consists of coniferous forests across Canada, the northeastern and western United States, Mexico and Central America. The species migrates to the United States during the non-breeding season, with northern birds remaining further north in winter than ruby-crowned kinglets.

Diet

The golden-crowned kinglet is insectivorous, foraging in trees or shrubs to eat insects, especially caterpillars, insect eggs, and spiders.

Did you know?

Golden-crowned kinglets may form tight huddles when overwintering to conserve heat. They also tend not to fear human approach.