A common, large finch of gardens, parks, woodland and farmland, the greenfinch feeds on seeds, and will visit birdtables and feeders in gardens. In winter, they form flocks with other finches, and can be seen roaming the countryside and parklands for food. Greenfinches nest in small colonies in tree and bushes. In spring, they perform a display flight, showing off their yellow wing and tail patches. Between four and six eggs are produced and the chicks are fully fledged 18 days after hatching.
How to identify
Greenfinches are large, chunky finches that are mostly olive-green, but with a yellow patch on the wings and tail. Females are grey-green with less yellow.
Did you know?
As well as being found in Europe, greenfinches also live in Australia and New Zealand, where they were introduced by English settlers to remind them of home.
