There are six species in the Kinglet family. They are all found in the Northern Hemisphere.

Two species are found in North America: the Golden-crowned Kinglet (Regulus satrapa) and the Ruby-crowned Kinglet (Corthylio calendula). Both species breed in New Hampshire.

Kinglets are tiny birds, about 3.1–4.3 inches (7.9–10.9 cm) in length. They have relatively large, rounded heads, short wings, thin tails, and short, thin bills. They are usually gray, olive-green, or brown and often have brightly colored crown feathers.

Kinglets mainly eat insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates. They also eat insect eggs and sometimes fruit and seeds. They often pick insects and their eggs from leaves, branches, and needles. Some species hover briefly while reaching for food.

RUBY-CROWNED KINGLET

The Ruby-crowned Kinglet measures about 3.5–4.3 inches (8.9–10.9 cm) long. It is olive-green with a white eye ring and white wing bars. Adult males have a bright red crown patch, although they often keep it hidden. Females do not have the red crown.

Ruby-crowned Kinglets breed mainly in tall, dense coniferous forests. In winter, they can be found in deciduous forests, shrubs, parks, and other habitats. They breed across northern North America and in the mountains of the western United States.

GOLDEN-CROWNED KINGLET

The Golden-crowned Kinglet measures about 3.1–4.3 inches (7.9–10.9 cm) long. It is olive-green above and gray below, with white wing bars and a black-and-white striped face.

Both males and females have a yellow crown bordered by black. Males also have an orange patch in the center of the yellow crown.

Golden-crowned Kinglets live mainly in coniferous forests. They breed in boreal and mountain forests across much of Canada and Alaska, and in parts of the western and northeastern United States, including New Hampshire. In winter, they can be found across much of North America in coniferous and deciduous forests, shrubs, and other habitats.