Hello, everyone! Today, let’s talk about a bird with a rather unusual beak, the “Common Crossbill.”
The Common Crossbill is slightly larger than a sparrow, measuring about 18 cm in length. Particularly, the males are brightly red, while the females are a more subdued olive color.
The most striking feature of the Common Crossbill is its beak. It’s significantly crossed over. This unique structure evolved to facilitate the extraction of seeds from pine cones.
Common Crossbills live in groups, typically moving in flocks of 10 to 30. Interestingly, they breed throughout the year. This is possible because their diet consists mainly of seeds from conifers like pines and firs, ensuring they don’t struggle for food even in winter.
Speaking of food, the way Common Crossbills eat is quite fascinating. They use their robust beaks to detach pine cones from branches, then carry them to a convenient spot to extract the seeds. They use their beaks skillfully, much like parrots, even when moving between branches or hanging upside down. Observing these birds living in nature, each day seems like an adventure.
By the way, the Common Crossbill is a winter visitor to Japan, staying from around November to April. Spotting one feasting on pine seeds might be a lucky sight. Let’s meet again next time with stories about another bird!
