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Siskin

Spinus spinus

Not yet photographed by the community

Small yellow-green finch of conifers and alder.

Species Profile

Green List

Lifespan: 8–10 years in the wild
Size & Weight: 12–13 cm, wingspan 21–25 cm; 9–14 g
Habitat: Open woodlands, coniferous and mixed forests, parks, and gardens with seed-bearing trees, particularly alder and birch.
UK Distribution: Year-round resident across much of Scotland, Wales, and northern England; migratory populations from continental Europe arrive in autumn, with numbers fluctuating considerably between years.
Diet: Primarily small seeds from alder, birch, teasel, and dandelion; also feeds on insects and spiders during breeding season.
Predators: Sparrowhawks, merlins, jays, and foxes; nests also vulnerable to magpies and crows.
Mating Season: April to August
Breeding: Clutch size 3–5 eggs; incubation period 10–12 days; typically 1–2 broods per year; fledging period 13–15 days.
Behaviour: Highly social, especially in winter, forming flocks that feed acrobatically on seed heads; males have distinctive bright yellow plumage with black and white head markings. Known for their liquid, tinkling call and agile flight, often hanging from twigs and branches while feeding.

Did You Know?

•Siskins have a specially adapted bill and tongue to extract seeds from alder and birch cones with precision.
•The species has shown a dramatic increase in UK garden visits since the 1980s, likely linked to the popularity of nyger seed feeders.
•Male siskins are highly territorial during breeding season but become gregarious and peaceful in winter flocks.
•Continental siskins migrating to the UK can be distinguished from resident birds by subtle plumage differences.
•Siskins perform a distinctive courtship flight where males chase females while singing, with highly acrobatic aerial displays.

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