Mountain Moment: Red Crossbills

Description

In late August 2021, a migrating flock of red crossbills (Loxia curvirostra) visited the Longmire Meadow, attracted by its travertine mineral deposits created by volcanic springs. Many birds eat small stones or grit to help them digest tough vegetation in their gullets, but crossbills are particularly attracted to sources of salt or calcium, perhaps as a nutrient supplement. However, crossbills primarily feed on seeds, using their specialized bills that cross at the tips to pry open conifer cones.

Duration

1 minute, 38 seconds

Credit

NPS

Date Created

12/15/2021

Copyright and Usage Info

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