Definition

1. Noun:
   • A small finch: A small songbird belonging to the finch family, characterized by its size and shape similar to a siskin.
   • Distinctive physical features: This bird is specifically noted for having a red crown (top of the head) and a rosy or pinkish breast and rump.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • We spotted a flock of redpolls feeding on birch seeds.
  • The male redpoll's red crown is much brighter during the breeding season.

Advanced Usage

• Common Redpoll (Acanthis flammea): The most widespread species, often simply called "redpoll."

  • The Common Redpoll is a frequent winter visitor to backyard feeders in northern regions.

• Lesser Redpoll (Acanthis cabaret): A smaller species found in Europe.

  • The Lesser Redpoll can be distinguished by its darker plumage.

• Arctic Redpoll (Acanthis hornemanni): A paler species breeding in the high Arctic.

  • Sighting an Arctic Redpoll is a special treat for birdwatchers.

Variants and Related Words

• Finch (n): A broader category of small passerine birds to which the redpoll belongs.

  • Finches, like the redpoll, typically have strong, conical bills for eating seeds.

• Siskin (n): A similar small finch, often used for comparison in the redpoll's definition.

  • The pine siskin is another small, streaky finch often seen with redpolls.

Synonyms

• Common Redpoll: Often used interchangeably with the general term "redpoll" in North America.
• Acanthis flammea: The scientific name for the Common Redpoll.

Related Phrases

• "Redpoll flock": A group of these birds, commonly seen in winter.

  • A large redpoll flock descended on the alder trees.

• "Winter irruption": A term in birding for when redpolls and other northern finches move south in large numbers.

  • This year's winter irruption brought an unusual number of redpolls to our area.

Noun

1. small siskin-like finch with a red crown and a rosy breast and rump
2. small siskin-like finch with a red crown