Ruby-Crowned Kinglet

A Tiny Bird with a Big Personality

Discover the charm and agility of the Ruby-Crowned Kinglet.

The Ruby-Crowned Kinglet (Regulus calendula) is a small but energetic songbird known for its rapid movements, high-pitched calls, and striking red crown that is often hidden. This tiny bird, found across North America, is a delight to observe due to its constant flitting and insect-hunting behavior. Despite its size, the Ruby-Crowned Kinglet is hardy and can survive harsh winter conditions. In this guide, we'll explore its physical traits, habitat, diet, and behavior.

Scientific Classification:

• Common Name: Ruby-Crowned Kinglet

• Scientific Name: Regulus calendula

• Family: Regulidae

• Order: Passeriformes

Physical Characteristics:

• Appearance: Olive-green plumage with a pale underbelly and white wing bars.

• Size: Approximately 3.5-4.3 inches (9-11 cm) in length.

• Wingspan: About 6.3-7.1 inches (16-18 cm).

• Weight: Typically 0.2-0.3 ounces (5-10 grams).

• Distinguishing Feature: Males have a hidden ruby-red crown that becomes visible when excited or displaying.

Habitat and Range:

• Found throughout North America, from Canada to Mexico.

• Prefers coniferous and mixed forests, often seen in shrubs and dense vegetation.

• During migration, they can be found in a variety of habitats, including gardens and parks.

• Some populations migrate south for the winter, while others remain in milder climates.

Diet:

• Primarily insectivorous, feeding on small insects, spiders, and larvae.

• Occasionally consumes berries and tree sap during colder months when insects are scarce.

• Constantly foraging, often hovering near leaves and twigs to catch prey.

Behavior and Vocalizations:

• Known for its restless and energetic movements.

• Produces a distinctive, high-pitched "tsee-tsee-tsee" call and a complex song with rapid notes.

• Displays its ruby crown when agitated or during courtship displays.

• Frequently flicks its wings, a unique behavior seen in kinglets.

Breeding and Nesting:

• Breeding season occurs in late spring and early summer.

• Nests are built in coniferous trees, often high up and well-concealed.

• Females construct a deep, cup-shaped nest using moss, lichens, and spider silk.

• Lays 5-12 eggs, incubated for about two weeks.

• Both parents participate in feeding the young until they fledge.

Lifespan and Predators:

• Typically lives 4-6 years in the wild.

• Natural predators include hawks, owls, snakes, and domestic cats.

• Small size and agility help evade predators.

Conservation Status:

• Classified as "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

• Populations are stable, though habitat loss may impact some local groups.

Interesting Facts:

• The Ruby-Crowned Kinglet's metabolism is extremely high, requiring it to eat almost constantly.

• Despite its small size, it can survive in temperatures well below freezing.

• One of the smallest songbirds in North America, but its loud song is surprisingly complex.

• Rarely sits still, making it a challenge for birdwatchers to photograph.

How to Attract Ruby-Crowned Kinglets to Your Backyard:

• Plant native shrubs and trees that attract insects.

• Offer suet, mealworms, or small berries.

• Provide a fresh water source for drinking and bathing.

• Avoid using pesticides to maintain a healthy insect population.

For more insights and videos on the Ruby-Crowned Kinglet and other fascinating bird species, visit our @UrbanBirdsCLT, where you’ll find close-up footage and expert birdwatching tips.

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