Chaffinch

Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs as it's name suggests is a member of the finch family. It is one of the most common and widespread birds in the UK. As is the case for many bird species the male is brightly coloured in comparison to the female, with a reddish brown breast and cheeks, a blue grey cap and greenish back with distinct white wing bars and tail feathers. Whilst the female is less colourful tones of brown, green and grey but, still with the characteristic wing bars. It's BTO code is CH not to be confused with Chiffchaff which is CC. 

They are found in woodlands (w1/w2), gardens , hedgerows scrub and arable habitats. Preferring areas with trees and shrubs but, has become highly adaptable to it's environment. It's well evolved beak is perfect for seed eating which is it's primary source of food but, will also eat insects. They nest typically from April to June and their nests consist of a cup-shape in trees and shrubs consisting of moss, lichen and spider silk. The clutch consists of 4-5 pale blue eggs and are incubated for about 11-14 days and fledge after 14-16 days. 

As the species is so wide spread and abundant it is not a species of conservation concern listed as Green on the Birds of Conservation Consern (BoCC) 5. However, chaffinches although highly adaptable do suffer from diseases such as Finch Trichomonosisa. This is a disease that affects finches and other birds, causing lesions in the upper alimentary tract that make it difficult to swallow. They also suffer from several foot related conditions which are all caused by feeders and water baths which are not maintained. Therefore, it is important if you put food and water out for the birds in your garden or in a public place that these are maintained.  

As with all bird species their nests are protected from destruction during the nesting season. Therefore any vegetation clearance during this period should be avoided where possible. Prioritising protecting and restoring woodland and hedgerows where chaffinches thrive will also be key and benefit a range of other species.