European Goldfinch

(Carduelis carduelis)

birds / passerines / sparrows, finches & allies / true finches

Description

The European goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis) is a finch found across Europe, North Africa, and western and central Asia. It is known for its striking coloration. Adults have a red face and a black-and-white head. The back and flanks are brown, the breast and belly are white, and the wings are black with a broad yellow bar. Juveniles lack the colorful markings on the face and head. Their size typically ranges from 12 to 13 cm (4.7–5.1 in) in length, with a wingspan of 21 to 25.5 cm (8.3–10.0 in). They are easily distinguishable from other species by their unique face pattern and wing coloration. European goldfinches are also known for their beautiful singing and elaborate twittering calls.

Diet & habitat

European goldfinches prefer open, partially wooded lowlands, and are commonly found in gardens, parks, and orchards. They feed on a diet primarily consisting of seeds, especially from thistles and teasels, which they adeptly pick with their thin beaks. They also consume small insects and invertebrates, particularly during the breeding season. European goldfinches have a strong social structure and are often seen in flocks outside the breeding season.

Migration

These birds are partially migratory. Populations in the northeastern parts of their range move southwards during the winter, while those in the milder southern and western parts are more likely to be resident year-round.

Nesting

The breeding season begins in late spring, even though pair bonding beings already in late winter. European goldfinches nest in trees and bushes. Females create a nest made from moss, grass, and twigs, lined with wool and feathers. They lay 4-6 eggs, which are incubated for around 11-13 days. The chicks are fed by both parents after hatching, first a mix of seeds and invertebrates and then an increasing amount of seeds as they grow. Fledglings leave the nest after approximately 14-18 days.

Status

The European goldfinch is widespread and common across much of Eurasia, and is listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List. This species is a popular cage bird, and the catching of wild individuals has seen an increase over the last 30 years, particularly in North Africa. This has led to local declines, which has also impacted other European populations negatively.

European goldfinch has also been introduced to many other parts of the world, such as Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and various countries in South America. It seems to have a fairly low impact on native ecosystems compared to many other introduced species.