The goldcrest is said to be the smallest Irish, British and even European bird. He belongs to the Kinglet family. He is olive green in colour, 99mm in length and 6gms in weight.As  its name suggests the goldcrests most noticeable feather is his crest of bright gold. The male has an orange centre to his crest. The female has a yellow stripe.In summer most of them live among pine trees and other conifers while calling out in a high pitched zee zee zee sound.The nest is beautifully made from moss, woven with spiders webs and lined with feathers while hung  from the end of the branch of a tree hidden behind leaves.In early March nine or ten eggs are laid.In cold winters it is hard to search for food.The number of goldcrests are decreasing because of the cold weather.

Story By  Tina Moran.
 Illustration by Amanda Grehan.