Quick facts

Length15–17 cm
Weight26–44 g
Wingspan27–30 cm
Eggs3–4 eggs
Incubation13–16 days
Fledging18–22 days
MigrationIrregular
Breeding seasonVariable depending on food availability
Common in IcelandNo
Breeds in IcelandYes
Best timeYear-round but highly irregular

About Red Crossbill

The red crossbill is a distinctive songbird easily recognized by its crossed bill. It mainly inhabits coniferous forests where it feeds on seeds. The species is an irregular visitor to Iceland.

Its diet consists primarily of conifer seeds extracted from cones. Red crossbills nest in trees and may breed at unusual times of the year. They are a rare but fascinating visitor in Iceland.

Habitat

Coniferous and mixed forests

Diet

Seeds from conifer cones, especially spruce and pine.

Nesting habitat

Coniferous woodland; nests in trees.
SourceLast verified: 08/09/2026