Goldcrest and Firecrest - Average Length: 3.5 inches

Although they both hold the distinction of being the tiniest bird in Europe, the Goldcrest and Firecrest actually have a lot in common. Both live in secluded coniferous forests but leave their homes during the winter to go foraging for food. They measure about 3.5 inches in length. They are abundant across the whole of the continent, while firecrests tend to be more common in southern Europe and even have habitats there.

In fact, their size might help explain why they are successful and capacious. These birds, which are just three and a half inches long, can squeeze into places where predators would either miss them or be unable to get to them. Additionally, their mobility and small size frequently make them not worth the effort to pursue when they do manage to get the attention of an animal. Their eggs are much tiny, with an average diameter of just half an inch.