Greenfinch

The Greenfinch (Chloris chloris) is a medium-sized finch belonging to the Fringillidae family. It is easily identified by its olive-green plumage, bright yellow wing and tail edges, and thick, conical beak, which is well-suited for seed eating. Males are brighter in colour than females, which are more subdued with greyish-green tones. The BTO code for the Greenfinch is GR.

Greenfinches are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, gardens, parks, farmland, and hedgerows. They are sociable birds, often seen in flocks outside the breeding season, sometimes mixing with other finches and sparrows. Their diet primarily consists of seeds, buds, and berries, and they are frequent visitors to garden feeders, particularly those offering sunflower hearts.

Greenfinches breed from April to July. They build cup-shaped nests in shrubs, hedges, or trees, using twigs, grass, and moss, often lined with feathers. Clutches typically consist of 4-6 pale blue eggs, speckled with brown, which are incubated by the female for 12-14 days. Both parents feed the chicks, which fledge after 13-18 days and become independent shortly thereafter. Greenfinches may produce two or even three broods in a single season. The UK breeding population of Greenfinches is estimated to be around 1.6 million pairs. However, their numbers have declined significantly in recent years due to disease, particularly Trichomonosis, which has impacted populations since the mid-2000s.

The Greenfinch is Red-listed on the Birds of Conservation Concern (BoCC) 5 due to its recent population decline. Despite being widespread and common, the species remains vulnerable to further losses if disease outbreaks persist. The primary threat to Greenfinches is Trichomonosis, a parasitic disease that affects the throat, making it difficult for birds to eat and drink. The disease spreads through contaminated food and water at bird feeders. Other threats include habitat loss due to changes in land use and reduced availability of natural food sources. Greenfinches, like all wild birds, are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Conservation efforts focus on reducing the spread of disease and maintaining suitable habitats. Garden bird enthusiasts play a crucial role by ensuring feeders and water sources are cleaned regularly to prevent the spread of Trichomonosis. Public awareness of the importance of hygiene at bird feeding stations is essential for safeguarding Greenfinch populations. As well as, encouraging the planting of native shrubs and trees that provide seeds and berries can help support Greenfinches. Maintaining hedgerows and woodland edges also benefits this species, as these habitats are key for both nesting and foraging.