Hello, everyone! Nature in Japan is full of small wonders, and among them, the Goldcrest is particularly endearing.
This tiny bird measures only about 10 cm in body length and spans roughly 15 cm when its wings are open. Weighing a mere 3 to 5 grams, it’s one of the smallest birds around. Its most striking feature is the beautiful crown feathers. The top of its head, bordered in yellow and black, resembles a tiny chrysanthemum flower! However, the female is characterized by the absence of red spots.
The Goldcrest inhabits coniferous forests across Europe and Asia, but in Japan, it is often seen from the subalpine to alpine zones of Honshu. In winter, they can also be spotted in forests and parks in lowland areas. They have a habit of sticking to coniferous trees, using their small bodies and thin beaks to catch prey from the foliage. Sometimes they are preyed upon by praying mantises, but they manage to survive skillfully with their agile movements.
Their call is a high-pitched, rapid “Tee-tee-tee… Tiri-tiri” or “Tsu-tsu-tsu, tiri-tiri-tiri,” and during the breeding season, you can hear their adorable voices. Males display their beautiful crown feathers in a stunning display to enchant females. It’s a small but powerful performance to attract a mate. In nest building, the male works on the outside while the female handles the interior, using animal fur to create a warm bed.
In European folklore, the Goldcrest is known as the “king of birds” because its crown feathers resemble a tiny royal crown. Its scientific name “Regulus” means “little king” in Latin—a truly romantic story. It’s even the national bird of Luxembourg!
With just a little attention, you can catch glimpses of the tiny world of the Goldcrest in parks and mountainous areas. A gem-like presence nurtured by Japan’s nature. Next time you go for a walk, try looking for them. Surely, you will find new discoveries and joy in your everyday life.
