From Opus

Photo by Scottishdude
Photographed: Whatton Nottinghamshire

Photo by dfd
Female, March 2009, Ireland

Carduelis spinus

[edit] 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.

[edit] Distribution

British Isles: resident, breeding in most of the Scottish highlands and in Ireland. Also found locally in England and Wales.

[edit] Taxonomy

Monotypic.

[edit] 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.

[edit] Behaviour

Gregarious, particularly in the winter and often seen in mixed flocks of Goldfinches and Redpolls.

[edit] Flight

Bounding flight. Also a circular display flight, which is rather bat-like. Hops on the ground.

[edit] Vocalisation

[edit] References

1. Collins Pocket Guide to British Birds 1966

[edit] External Links