Species: Firecrest (Regulus ignicapilla)
Family: Regulidae
The song of the Firecrest consists of a high-pitched, delicate series of notes. It typically features a rapid, rhythmic sequence of very high, insect-like sounds, often delivered in short bursts. A typical example of its song might be described as: “zee-zee-zee-zee-tititititititititit,” with a slight rise in pitch and speed.
Key characteristics of the Firecrest’s song include:
- Very high frequency, often at the upper edge of human hearing.
- Fast-paced and repetitive, typically with a slightly ascending or descending cadence.
- Softer and less melodic compared to the similar-sounding Goldcrest (Regulus regulus), emphasizing the higher-pitched squeaky elements.
The Firecrest’s song is often performed from cover, making it challenging to locate due to its faint and high-pitched nature. Many people over 40 may find it difficult to hear clearly without assistance.
