Male Lesser Redpoll ( Acanthis cabaret )

Clickychick was watching the birds at the feeders and spotted the first Redpolls we have had for many months.  Obviously there was a scramble for cameras and unusually we both had the right lenses already on.

There were a pair (as opposed to two) flitting around.  I managed to catch this male perched in the branches of the Magnolia.  The shot is a bit noisy as the day had heavy clouds coming and going.

I am very pleased to have these visiting the garden as they are listed as of Red concern.  Basically that means there have been recent population declines both breeding and wintering.