We found this Common Crossbill, or Red Crossbill as they are called in USA,  in the top a Pine tree, silhouetted against a beautifully bright blue sky. There is nothing common about its bright orange colour  but the Crossbill comes in colours ranging from yellow to red.

The Crossbill’s favourite food is seeds from Spruce and Pine cones. In the latter part of the last century Spruce and Pine trees have been planted and are now in full growth in many places throughout the country.