European Goldfinch.
Photo: K Vang and W Dabrowka © Bird Explorers
European Goldfinch.
Photo: SG Lane Collection © Australian Museum
Distribution map of Carduelis carduelis
Map © Birds Australia Birdata
European Goldfinch
Scientific name: Carduelis carduelis
Family: Fringillidae
Order: Passeriformes
- Featured Bird Groups
- Introduced birds
What does it look like?
Description
Introduced to Australia in the nineteenth century, the European Goldfinch is one of only two 'true finches' in Australia (the other is the Greenfinch ). It has a red face, with a black crown and shoulders. The sides of the head are white. The upperparts and flanks are brown, the abdomen and rump are white. The black wings have conspicuous yellow bars and a white trailing edge in flight. The tail is black, tipped with white. Females are similar to males but have a less red face. Juveniles have a brown head and streaked body plumage.
Where does it live?
Distribution
The European Goldfinch is a widespread species in Europe, central Asia and northern Africa and was introduced to Australia in the 1860s. Originally restricted to urban areas, the European Goldfinch has successfully moved out into country areas of south-eastern Australia, including Tasmania.
Habitat
The European Goldfinch is found in settled areas, farmlands and weedy areas such as roadsides, railway lands and industrial wasteland. They are often seen in gardens and parks. Particularly associated with patches of Scotch Thistle.
Seasonal movements
Locally nomadic within range.
What does it do?
Feeding
The European Goldfinch has a finer bill than its relative, the Greenfinch, and eats smaller seeds, especially those of the introduced Scotch Thistle. They also eat insects in summer.
Breeding
The European Goldfinch builds a cup-shaped nest in low bushes.
Living with us
Living with humans
Can sometimes be a pest in orchards.
References
Morcombe, M. 2000. Field guide to Australian Birds. Steve Parish Publishing.
Simpson, K and Day, N. 1999. Field guide to the birds of Australia, 6th Edition. Penguin Books, Australia.
Rowland, P. 1996. A Photographic Guide to Birds of Australia. Australian Museum/New Holland.