Common Crossbill
Loxia recurvirostra
Length 16-17cm

Has evolved crossed-tipped mandibles to extract seeds from conifer cones, and in particular those of spruces; seldom seen away from mature specimens of these trees. Bizarre bill structure only visible, however, at close range. Male has mainly red plumage, that of female being yellowish green. Often nests as early as February or March and thereafter seen as roving, single-species flocks. Feeds high in trees but visits woodland pools to drink. Flight call a sharp kip kip. Presence of feeding birds often indicated by sound of falling cones. Replaced in native pinewoods of Scottish Highlands by very similar Scottish crossbill.