Ok guys and gals, since I've been on here a bit now, I'll post a little teaser for your good selves. If you're an experienced birder, this one should pose little problem. IF SO, PLEASE HANG FIRE, AND LET SOMEONE WHO MIGHT ENJOY THE CHALLENGE A BIT MORE HAVE A BASH . I'M SURE THEY'LL GET TWICE THE KICK OUT OF A CORRECT ANSWER!
In case anyone's wondering, the bird's OK, it was just being ringed.
Hi all,
I don't want to give it away by throwing clues around, but after so many good attempts I think I should add the following:
The species is both a migrant, and resident breeder with App' 25000 pairs (2000).
Commonly associated with birchwoods.
The individual here is in it's first winter.
Previously considered a subspecies or race, it was split a few years ago, and given full species status (unless the taxonomists have changed their minds again!).
Unknown said:Previously considered a subspecies or race, it was split a few years ago, and given full species status (unless the taxonomists have changed their minds again!).
You're too kind mickycoop
Well in that case I'd have to go for Lesser Redpoll (unless you are going to tell me differently). I've seen them on my feeders but none of them seemed to have white rumps. Is that maybe due to it being a first winter bird?
If it is a Lesser Redpoll give the prize to lynettemj. She was the first to suggest Redpoll. What was the prize again - a trip to Villa Park?
TJ
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Tony
My Flickr Photostream
Bang on Teejay! Special mention for Lynette. Talk about "close but no cigar"! I felt such a pedant for not accepting "Redpoll", which is why I tried to give a hint with the BOU list.
Thank to all who had a shot. If this kind of pic's not everyone's cup of tea, don't hesitate to let me know!
MC
Thanks Lynette,
This might interest you: http://www.worcesterbirding.co.uk/redpolls_58.html
Like I said, Football's out of my price range nowadays, this is all that's left: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aw-j4JNyHXI
The best I can offer the winner's a slap round the head with a wet lettuce!