Common Redpoll Carduelis flammea
Flight call description Most common flight call is a series of measured "tchet" calls, usually doubled or tripled, and variable in buzziness. Often intermixed with "tchet" calls is a rising, nasal "duraaai" and sometimes a long, buzzy or trilled, somewhat liquid "jzzzzzzz". Hybrids of the latter two calls are sometimes heard.
Fig.1. Ontario November 28, 2000 (WRE).
"Tchet" call from bird in flight.
Fig.2. Ontario November 28, 2000 (WRE).
"Duraaai" call from bird in flight.
Fig.3. Ontario November 28, 2000 (WRE).
"Jzzzzzzz" call from bird in flight.
Examples Diurnal
Similar species See Hoary Redpoll, Pine Siskin, and American Goldfinch. The "tchet" calls are similar to White-winged Crossbill's "tchet" calls but have a descending inflection, are more musical, and are delivered more slowly.
Behavior Thought to be primarily a diurnal migrant but probably begins movement well before sunrise. Gives flight calls regularly while perched and in flight during the day. Not known to give flight calls at night.