Goldcrest

The Goldcrest is the smallest European passerine bird and is in the kinglet family; its colourful golden crest feathers gives rise to its English and scientific names. Several subspecies are recognised across the very large distribution range that includes much of Eurasia and the islands of Macaronesia. This kinglet is constantly on the move as it searches for insects to eat. This species is partly migratory, northernmost populations deserting their breeding areas in winter. Birds winter in Europe and Asia south of the breeding range. The Goldcrest is monogamous and the clutch size in Europe is typically 9–11 eggs, but ranges from 6–13. R. r. regulus is the nominate sub-species, however R. r. hyrcanus breeds in Iran and R. r. buturlini breeds in Eastern Europe, the Caucasus and Central Asia.