Goldfinch (carduelis carduelis)

These lovely finches are seen very often in the garden feeding on thistle and teasel seeds and making a lot of noise in the blackthorn hedging at the north end of the garden nearest to Whickham View. They have become much more common in the last decade.

They have a bright red face with a black and white head. There is a bright bar of yellow on the wings. A flock of goldfinches is known as a ‘charm’ and they are certainly charming with their dancing flight pattern and tinkling bell call. 

The nest is neat and delicately woven with the fluff from thistles lining the inside to make a soft bed. The 4-6 eggs are pale bluish white with reddish brown streaks.