Arctic redpoll nest in Lapland, Finland

© Maximilian Buzun/Alam

Feathering Arctic nests. Feathering nests in the Arctic Circle

These colourful little eggs are those of the hoary redpoll, also known as the Arctic redpoll because of its extreme northern habitat. This hardy finch spends much of its time, including breeding season, in the brushy tundra of the northern polar regions. Because of the extreme cold, the female will often line her nest with feathers, such as those of the white ptarmigan.

Spotting a hoary redpoll is a rare treat south of the Arctic. The bird doesn't exactly migrate, but in winter it will sometimes fly short distances further south in search of food. It is recognisable by its small yellow bill, red cap, dark face and frosty white underbody streaked with brown – as well as the “chif chif chif” of its call.