- Carduelis spinus
Spinus spinus
Identification
Male Mainly yellowish-green, with darkish streaks. Black chin and crown. Yellow rump. Female and Juvenile lack the black head, are less yellow and more streaked.
Distribution
British Isles: resident, breeding in most of the Scottish highlands and in Ireland. Also found locally in England and Wales.
Taxonomy
Monotypic.
Habitat
Breeds mostly in coniferous woods, but may also be found in gardens with conifer trees. In winter may be found feeding in birches and alders.
Behaviour
Gregarious, particularly in the winter and often seen in mixed flocks of Goldfinches and Redpolls.
Flight
Bounding flight. Also a circular display flight, which is rather bat-like. Hops on the ground.
Vocalisation
<flashmp3>Carduelis spinus (song).mp3</flashmp3>
Listen in an external program
References
- Collins Pocket Guide to British Birds 1966
External Links
