Sometimes referred to as Common Redpoll they breed
further south than Arctic Redpoll, also in habitats with
thickets or shrubs across the northern parts of North America
and Eurasia. There are several different forms but they all
migrate further south into most of Eurasia. These
birds are remarkably resistant to cold temperatures and winter
movements are mainly driven by food availability. Mealy
Redpoll is a quite descriptive name, the word 'poll' comes from
the Middle English term 'pol' meaning head, in this case red,
and 'mealy' refers the overall colouration.
There have been eight Mealy Redpoll reported from S.
Gloucestershire;
2009: (1)
HIGHEST COUNT 4
At least one was present at Orchard Pools, Severn Beach on
January 18th feeding on Great Willowherb; At least four were
seen around Lagoon III at Oldbury Power Station on March
21st (Matt Plenty); Several probably this
species were seen at Severn Beach on April 13th.
Mealy Redpoll at Oldbury Power Station in March. Matt Plenty
2004: (3)
One was reported at Thornbury Golf Course on February 10th. This
occurrence constitutes the first report of this species for S.
Gloucestershire; Two adults were identified and photographed on
April 24th at Severn Beach.
