Common Rosefinch

[Lizzybif]

I was chuffed, and surprised, to see one of these at my feeders today!
I saw the adult male but think the adult female was there as well although it was hard to distinguish from the Greenfinch as the poor birds are all soaking wet today as it's rained non stop!!

The Bird Guide I have doesn't give much info but does say they can breed in Britain.

I live in the very far North of Scotland so how 'rare' is this siting?

Nothing against all the usual species who visit my garden everyday but it's great to see something different and so beautiful as the Rosefinch! :t:

Liz

[RecoveringScot]

I was chuffed, and surprised, to see one of these at my feeders today!
I saw the adult male but think the adult female was there as well although it was hard to distinguish from the Greenfinch as the poor birds are all soaking wet today as it's rained non stop!!

The Bird Guide I have doesn't give much info but does say they can breed in Britain.

I live in the very far North of Scotland so how 'rare' is this siting?

Nothing against all the usual species who visit my garden everyday but it's great to see something different and so beautiful as the Rosefinch! :t:

Liz

Sightings of a male and female together in Scotland (or in close proximity) during the breeding season are quite rare as far as I know- although the species is fairly regular on migration in the Northern Isles. I would inform your local bird recorder immediately of the full circumstances. His e-mail address is on this page:

http://www.bto.org/birdtrack/bird_recording/county_bird_recorder.htm

If the habitat is right you might (although its not certain) have a potential nesting on your hands. Don't give out the location publicly. The local recorder will advise you on what will be done if breeding is suspected.

[Lizzybif]

Sightings of a male and female together in Scotland (or in close proximity) during the breeding season are quite rare as far as I know- although the species is fairly regular on migration in the Northern Isles. I would inform your local bird recorder immediately of the full circumstances. His e-mail address is on this page:

http://www.bto.org/birdtrack/bird_recording/county_bird_recorder.htm

If the habitat is right you might (although its not certain) have a potential nesting on your hands. Don't give out the location publicly. The local recorder will advise you on what will be done if breeding is suspected.


Thanks Phil!

However, as I said, I can't be 100% sure that it was a female as all the birds are soaking wet today. Will keep an eye out though!

Liz