What they like

Coniferous forest and old conifers. Pine, spruce, larch. But also gardens with some height variation, climbing plants and a messy corner. Hang up a nest box (small entrance hole) and leave some dead wood standing. Plant a few evergreen shrubs in your garden, park and yard: holly, juniper, yew. In agricultural areas: keep hedgerows and shelterbelts intact, preferably with conifers mixed in.

Ecological importance

Feeds on caterpillars, spiders and other small insects. In winter they switches to seeds and pine seeds. He clears pests from conifers and is themself prey for sparrowhawk and pine marten. A small cog that keeps the whole forest machinery running.

When in the Netherlands

All year round. Resident. In autumn and winter flocks roam about, and they may suddenly turn up in your neighbourhood.

Status

Fairly common. Declining due to fewer old conifer woods and monotonous greenery. Give them structure, variety and peace, and he'll stick around.