Ruby-crowned Kinglet
By: Jerry Poindexter
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
The ruby-crowned kinglet (Regulus calendula) one of North America’s smallest birds, measuring just 3½ to 4½ inches in length, although it is described as being more elongated than the very similar golden-crowned kinglet. The ruby-crowned kinglet belongs to the Regulidae family, which translates as “pretty king,” referring to the vermilion or scarlet patch on top of the bird’s crown, usually concealed unless the bird becomes excited. The ruby-crowned kinglet is a very active bird, hardly ever still and flicking wings nervously. It differs from the golden-crowned kinglet in that it has two white wing bars, a broken white eye ring, and slightly greener plumage.