"Carduelis carduelis," commonly known as the European goldfinch, is a small passerine bird native to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia. It belongs to the finch family, Fringillidae, and is characterized by its vibrant and distinct plumage.
The European goldfinch measures approximately 12-13 centimeters in length with a wingspan of around 21-25 centimeters. It has a black and white head with a bright red face, accompanied by a yellow body and striking black and white wings. The male goldfinch typically displays a larger and brighter red patch on its face compared to the female.
These birds primarily inhabit woodlands, hedgerows, and gardens, commonly seen in flocks foraging for food. The European goldfinch's diet mainly consists of various seeds, particularly from thistles, dandelions, and teasels. With its unique beak adapted for extracting small seeds from their husks, it is well-suited for its preferred diet.
The European goldfinch is known for its melodious song, which comprises a mixture of chirping, trilling, and twittering notes. They often sing while perched on tree branches or in flight, with their distinct calls used for communication within their flocks.
These birds are known for their agility in flight, characterized by their swift and acrobatic movements. They have a preference for open spaces and can sometimes be seen soaring in the air, displaying their vibrant plumage.
Overall, "Carduelis carduelis" refers to the beautiful and charismatic European goldfinch, recognized for its eye-catching appearance, captivating song, and its presence across various habitats in its natural range.
