Wildlife

UK Siskin and Lesser Redpoll Winter Welfare

Winter welfare of siskins and lesser redpolls in UK woodland and garden habitats.

Key Facts

Siskins are irruptive winter visitors to UK gardens in variable numbers
Lesser redpolls breed in the UK and are supplemented by continental winter visitors
Both species associate with birch and alder woodland for natural food
Nyjer seed feeders attract both species to gardens during winter
UK lesser redpoll populations have declined significantly in recent decades

Welfare Considerations

Individual siskins and lesser redpolls depend on birch and alder seed crops supplemented by garden feeding during winter, with habitat conservation and feeding support improving welfare.

What You Can Do

Install nyjer seed feeders to attract siskins and redpolls in winter
Plant birch and alder trees to provide natural winter food resources
Record siskin and lesser redpoll garden visits to assist BTO monitoring