Chaffinch

Description:

The Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs) is one of the most common birds found in woodlands, hedgerows, and gardens throughout Ireland. This small passerine bird is plump with a short tail and a strong beak. Male chaffinches have a reddish-pink chest and cheeks, while females have a greyish-brown chest and a pinkish-brown back. Both sexes have a distinctive white bar on their wings.

What they eat:

Chaffinches feed mainly on seeds, including beech nuts, conifer seeds, and weed seeds. They also eat fruit in the summer, insects and their larvae in the spring and summer, and spiders and worms in the autumn and winter.

Habitat:

Chaffinches live in woodlands, hedgerows, gardens, and parks. They prefer mixed woodlands, with a combination of conifers and deciduous trees. They also like open areas with scattered trees and bushes.

Size and wingspan:

Chaffinches are about 14 cm long with a wingspan of 24-29 cm.

Male female difference:

Male chaffinches are brightly coloured with a reddish-pink chest and cheeks, while females are less colourful with a greyish-brown chest and a pinkish-brown back. Both sexes have a distinctive white bar on their wings.

Where to find:

Chaffinches are found throughout Ireland in woodlands, hedgerows, gardens, and parks.

What months can be found in Ireland:

Chaffinches can be found in Ireland all year round.

Interesting note:

A group of chaffinches is called a "charm". The chaffinch has a distinctive and melodious song, which varies from region to region. Male chaffinches sing from high perches to attract females and to establish and defend their territory. The chaffinch is also an important food source for predators such as sparrowhawks, kestrels, and owls.