Goldfinch

The European Goldfinch is easily recognised by its bright red face, which is edged with white and black markings on the head. Its back is a warm brown colour, while the wings have bold yellow stripes with black and white edges, especially noticeable when it is flying. Both male and female adults look very similar, although females have a slightly smaller red area on their face. This bird is found widely across the UK and much of Europe, reaching into western Asia and North Africa. It lives year-round in most parts of Britain, with extra birds arriving from the continent during winter. The European Goldfinch prefers areas like open woodland edges, orchards, gardens, and wasteland where thistles and other plants that produce seeds grow well. It is becoming more common at garden feeders, especially enjoying nyjer seed. They are often seen in small groups called charms, feeding in an agile way on seed heads.