Common Redpoll Overview
The common redpoll is a small finch best known for its bright red crown. Its usual habitat is in shrubs and thickets, especially in colder northern regions, so any Hawaii sighting would be rare.
Adult males have a red crown, black chin, dark wings and tail, and red or pink coloring on the cheek and breast. The flanks show dark streaks. Females look similar but are darker and streakier, with little or no red except on the crown.
Markings and Habitat
Common redpolls are small, active birds, and their red cap is the easiest feature to notice. They are not everyday Hawaii birds like the zebra dove, common myna or northern cardinal.
In the Hawaii bird guide, the common redpoll fits best as a rare or unusual species to know by markings. Its small finch shape, streaked body and red crown make it easy to separate from many more familiar island birds.
