Birding Session - Goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis) as "The Charming Singer"
If somebody asked me to tell a couple of words to describe a Goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis), I would say: Colorful, small bird with divine voice. :D
This small finch is vividly colorful with its mixture of red, white and black on the head, goldish brown body and flashy yellow wing bars. Its thin bill varies from pinkish hue to sort of pale grey, and its legs are flesh colored.
The sexes are very similar. One can recognize the male by its red face extending behind the eye. Juveniles are much duller colored and without red, black and white markings on the head.
The usual call of the Goldfinch is a rambling twitter or tinkling . A delight for the ears. Its song is a composition of its usual call and rattling tones.
Goldfinches feed on various tree seeds, such as alder and birch. Their thin bill and light weight enables them to reach also for thistle, teasel and dandelion seeds. One can see them also feeding on sunflower hearts.
Goldfinches' nest is usually made of moss, grass and lichen. It is mostly placed in a tree towards the end of a branch. Their nests can be seen also in large gardens as well in open woodland and hedgerows. Female lays up to 7 eggs and incubation period lasts about 14 days. Youngsters are fed by both parents.
In Slovenia, Goldfinches successfully breed despite still dangerous ever-changing agricultural practices.
Bellow are some Goldfinch images taken this year in a vineyard habitat. Hope you'll fancy them.
Charming Singer - Goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis)
Colorful Sight - Goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis)
Poser - Goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis)
All images © 2017 Sreco Tzar. All rights reserved.