Crossbills

Crossbills (Loxia curvirostra) are distinctive finches belonging to the family Fringillidae. They are named for their unique crossed bill tips, which are perfectly adapted for extracting seeds from conifer cones. Males are often a vibrant red or orange, while females are olive-green to yellow, with juveniles being streaked grey-brown. The BTO code for the Common Crossbill is CR.

Pair of male Crossbills drinking from wet depression in a local coniferous woodland

Crossbills are typically found in coniferous forests, especially those dominated by pine, spruce, or larch. They are highly specialized seed eaters, feeding primarily on the seeds of conifer cones, although they may occasionally take other seeds or insects. Their foraging habits often result in nomadic behaviour, as they move in search of good cone crops.

Pair of male Crossbills sat in a coniferous woodland

Crossbills breed earlier than most birds, with nesting beginning as early as January or February, depending on food availability. Nests are built high in conifer trees, constructed from twigs, moss, and lichens, and lined with feathers or hair. Clutches usually consist of 3-4 pale blue-green eggs with brown markings. The female incubates the eggs for 12-16 days while the male brings food. Both parents feed the chicks, which fledge after about 18-22 days. The UK population of Common Crossbills is estimated to be around 20,000 pairs, although numbers fluctuate widely due to their nomadic nature and reliance on conifer seed availability. 

Female Crossbill sat on top of a coniferous tree

Crossbills are currently listed as Green on the Birds of Conservation Concern (BoCC) 5 due to their stable population, and are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, making it illegal to harm or destroy their nests/eggs/chicks. Conservation efforts for crossbills focus on preserving and restoring coniferous forest habitats. Sustainable forest management practices, such as maintaining diverse age structures and ensuring a steady supply of cone-producing trees, are crucial. Monitoring populations and promoting public awareness about the ecological importance of crossbills also play an important role in their conservation. Protecting these specialized finches ensures the health of conifer forest ecosystems, benefiting a wide range of other wildlife.

Male Crossbill sat on top of a coniferous tree