Documentation of Common Redpoll
2013-100

Observer Information

Reporter:  Bill Schmoker  3381 Larkspur Dr.,   LONGMONT, CO  80503-7524
E-mail:  bill.schmoker@gmail.com
Other Observers:  Garrett & Charlene Schmoker;

Species, Date, Time and Location Information

Species:  Common Redpoll
First Date/Time:  3/15/2013
Last Date/Time:  3/15/2013
Duration (total time in view):  3 hours
County:  Boulder
Specific Location:  3381 Larkspur Dr., Longmont
Number:  25
Age:  Unknown
Sex:  Multiple Birds - Mixed
Plumage:  Other/Unknown

Habitat

Suburban Backyard

Description of the Bird

See photos: Small (basically American Goldfinch-sized) finch with bright red cap, yellow bill, variable side streaking, variable undertail covert and uppertail covert streaking/spotting. Males with variable pink wash on breast, sometimes extending to belly.
Behaviors: Coming to thistle feeders with American Goldfinches and House Finches.
Call: many variations of call notes heard
Plumage: winter

Similar Species Discussion

Most other finches with red (House Finch, Cassin's Finch, etc.) would be larger, not have the combo of much white with clean red cap and yellow bill. Hoary Redpoll would have clean undertail coverts & rump, smaller bill, diminished black mask, etc.

Resources Used

Sibley Guide to Birds

Previous Experience

Extensive, much recent experience with both redpoll species from CO this winter and from Fairbanks, AK the previous winter.

Notes

Memory

Additional Information

Comments: Report submitted in response to request for records from counties experiencing historic irruption in winter of 2012-2013
Time: 8:30 am
Elevation:
Other Dates:
Nearest Town: Longmont
Independent Observers:

Date Documentation Submitted

4/5/2013 11:49:00 AM
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