European goldfinch

bird

Also known as: Carduelis carduelis

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Last updated

June 26, 2026

Quick Summary

The European goldfinch (C. carduelis) is a species of songbird belonging to the family Fringillidae. These finches are characterized by short, notched tails and vibrant yellow plumage, with a distinctive red, white, and black pattern on their heads. They possess delicate, sharp-pointed bills adapted for feeding on seeds from weeds found in fields and gardens.1

European goldfinches are found across western Eurasia and have been introduced to various regions, including Australia, New Zealand, and Bermuda. They are known for their high, lisping calls, often heard while in flight. Finches, in general, are small, seed-eating songbirds found widely in temperate regions, often forming large flocks outside of the nesting season.12

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goldfinch
5-inch) European goldfinch (C. carduelis) of western Eurasia has been introduced into Australia, New Zealand, Bermuda, and the United States (where it has not become established). It is brownish and black, with a red–white–black head pattern and gold in the wings (sexes alike). The 13-cm (5-inch)…
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5-inch) European goldfinch (C. carduelis) of western Eurasia has been introduced into Australia, New Zealand, Bermuda, and the United States (where it has not become established). It is brownish and black, with a red–white–black head pattern and gold in the wings (sexes alike). The 13-cm (5-inch)…
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migration
In Europe
(Parus), goldfinches (Carduelis carduelis), and blackbirds (Turdus merula) are usually sedentary in western Europe; they are usually migratory, however, in northern Europe, where their flights resemble a short migration. Starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) are sedentary in western Europe, where large numbers gather from eastern Europe. Large flocks also…
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(Parus), goldfinches (Carduelis carduelis), and blackbirds (Turdus merula) are usually sedentary in western Europe; they are usually migratory, however, in northern Europe, where their flights resemble a short migration. Starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) are sedentary in western Europe, where large numbers gather from eastern Europe. Large flocks also…
Read More