Common [Mealy] Redpoll

Acanthis flammea flammea

Scarce Winter visitors from Eastern Siberia to Britain, between December-March.

Breeds in Northern Europe, mostly reported in Eastern England.

Also winter in Southern Europe.

Adults are  a small brownish-grey finch with dark streaks and a bright red patch on its forehead.

It has a black bib and two pale stripes on the wings.

Males' breasts are often suffused with red. 

The rump is streaked and there is a broad dark brown streak across the vent.

It has brown legs, a dark-tipped yellowish bill and dark brown irises.