December 2003. Keene, NH. Hoary (Arctic) Redpoll Carduelis hornemmanni exilipes. These Hoary Redpoll images were taken during a memorable invasion of Common and Hoary Redpolls into New England in December 2003. After the initial discovery of four Hoary Redpolls on the Keene Christmas Bird Count, up to six birds could be consistently found feeding in birches along a bike path very close to Keene town center. Here they provided exceptional views alongside many Common Redpolls. It was simply a perfect opportunity to really get to know, and compare, the differences between the two species. All of the images were taken in Keene in December 2003. Images taken using Nikon Coolpix 995 through Swarovski HD telescope.

One of four Hoary Redpolls discovered on the Keene CBC on Decmber 14th, 2003.

Another bird, pretty much a 'classic', from the Keene bike path, December 23rd, 2003.

Hoary Redpoll (lower right) with Common Redpolls, Keene bike path, December 28th, 2003.

Two Hoary Redpolls together. Quite amazing to find multiple numbers of these Northern finches so close to Keene town center. Note the overall cold gray cast, very white underparts, virtually umarked undertail coverts and tiny bill.

Hoary Redpolls often look very rounded when ground feeding with a 'bullnecked' or 'hunch-backed' jizz.

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