Ruby-crowned Kinglet

(Regulus calendula)

 

Ruby-crowned Kinglet feeds in ornamental tree on Main Post.

Will Elder, NPS

 

Natural History: The Ruby-crowned Kinglet eats insects, other invertebrates, and fruits by hovering and snatching from the tree canopies. It nests in conifer twigs, hanging above the ground. Breeding season is from mid-May to mid-August.

General Distribution: In the Presidio, this species can be found in coastal and dune scrub areas, all forest areas, and in ornamentals.

Frequency: This species is common in the summer and fall and abundant in the winter.

Identifying Characteristics: This is a tiny bird with an olive-gray above with an incomplete white ring around its eye and 2 pale bars across its wings. The male has a ruby crown. The species has a tendency to twitch.

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