Goldfinch, relief

Description

Months associated: All months, but especially spring and winter. Period of breeding: May

With its red, white and black face and the yellow band on the black wings the goldfinch is one of our most vividly colored birds. The species belongs to the finch family, and it is extensively  widespread in Europe. Moreover it is seen in the West of Siberia and in North Africa. It has been brought to Australia and New Zealand too.

The goldfinch is about 12 – 14 cm. It is known for its penetrating and characteristic calling of flight. Its song is a chirping, which is combined with the calling.

The goldfinch prefers to breed in open areas, where it can find perennial herbs, which are the main constituents of its food. The goldfinch lives on weeds as thistles and burdocks, which are easily picked up with the sharp beak. The component part of the goldfinch has fallen in Denmark during the 20th century, which is caused by the increased usage of weed control by the agriculture.

The female goldfinch builds the nest high up in the trees, and it contains of moss, coma, root fibres and spider’s web. The first clutch of eggs is laid from the beginning of May. The eggs are hatched out by the female goldfinch in 13-14 days, while she is fed by the male goldfinch. The young ones leave the nest after about 15 days.

Some goldfinches spend the winter in this country, while others migrate to Southwest Europe. The goldfinch is most visible in spring and winter, when it flies in a flock.