(Redirected from Greenfinch)
The 'European Greenfinch', or just 'Greenfinch', ''Carduelis chloris'', is a small
passerine bird in the
finch family Fringillidae. The genus ''Carduelis'' might be split up and in this case, the greenfinches would be separated in their old genus ''Chloris'' again.
This bird is widespread throughout
Europe, north
Africa and south west
Asia. It is mainly resident, but some northernmost populations
migrate further south. The Greenfinch has also been introduced into
New Zealand.
Woodland edges, farmland hedges and gardens with relatively thick vegetation are favoured for breeding. It nests in trees or bushes, laying 3-8
eggs.
This species can form large flocks outside the breeding season, sometimes mixing with other finches and buntings. They feed largely on seeds, but also feed their young
insects.
The Greenfinch is 14-16 cm in length and is similar in size and shape to a
Chaffinch, but is mainly green, with yellow in the wings and tail. The female and young birds are duller and have brown tones on the back. The bill is thick and conical. The song contains wheezes and twitters, and the male has a "butterfly" display flight.
Etymology
Chloris from the Greek ''Khloros'' meaning "greenish-yellow," "pale green," "pale," "pallid" or "fresh".
Photo gallery
References
★ Database entry includes justification for why this species is of least concern
External links
★
European Greenfinch videos on the Internet Bird Collection