Ruby-crowned Kinglet (Corthylio calendula)

Here we can see a small spot of ruby-red peeking through its crown feathers indicating an adult male. Females and immature males lack red but it is usually concealed even on adult males. A common winter visitor and migrant to this area, this tiny songbird is a bundle of energy. They are constantly on the move flicking their wings and hover-gleaning, picking small insects from the leaves while hovering. This is presumably the highly migratory nominate race characterized by pale color and slightly larger size. Formerly included in the genus "Regulus" but recently moved to "Corthylio" as it is now clear they are not closely related to the Golden-crowned Kinglet. Formerly classified in the Old World Warbler family (Sylviidae) but now placed with other kinglets in "Regulidae."