Goldfinch

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Bird 🐦
🐦
Goldfinch
Carduelis carduelis
Size
12 cmSmaller than a sparrow, similar to a large thumb
Weight
14–19 gAbout the weight of a 10p coin
Lifespan
2–3 years
Rarity
Common
M vs F
Both sexes look very similar; males may have a slightly wider red face mask
Habitat
Open woodland, gardens, wasteland with thistles and teasels
Best time
Year-round; flocks visible in autumn and winter
Conservation
UK: Green LC
💡 Did you know?
A group of goldfinches is called a 'charm' — a name that perfectly captures their brilliant colours and tinkling calls
Their long, fine bill is specially adapted to extract seeds from thistles and teasels — plants that most other birds cannot reach into
Often confused with
Siskin (green-yellow streaky) Greenfinch (plain green-yellow larger)
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