Redpolls mealy or lesser

[Ukwildlifeo]

Ive been reading up on redpolls and Im still confused how to tell them apart (damn 'spliters' I was ok when they were one species!). So I've gathered together all my redpoll photos and hope you guys can help me out. Any ID tips appreciated

From Romford in Essex back in winter 2010




From last weekend at Centre Parcs in Thetford forest

Bird 1



Bird 2


Bird 3


Bird 4


Thanks in advance!

[Chris Hawes]

All I can say for sure is that I'm envious of your photos!!

I'd be interested to see what people say in response, as I could do with a better understanding myself. To be honest when I see redpolls I put them down as 'lesser', unless I were to see a particularly pale individual (which I haven't yet). It's not a species I've ever managed particularly close views of.

[Shrike]

I'd say all lesser , if you look at an old link called (group of about 30-40 small birds-help with i.d please) , htc dude posted a very good comparison pics page on lesser and mealy redpolls.

[Dogghound]

All lesser

[htcdude]

Here's the link again:

Redpolls

Nige

[Ukwildlifeo]

Thanks folks