Bullfinch
Pyrrhula pyrrhula
The Bullfinch is a striking bird species notable for its distinctive appearance and behaviour, commonly seen in Britain's woodlands, particularly in the winter months when it visits gardens and bird feeders. It is a year-round resident in the UK, although its numbers can fluctuate depending on food availability.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Bullfinch in the field.
The Bullfinch can be identified at a glance by its stout body, short tail, and distinctive black cap and white rump, as well as its bright red-breast and face in males. Its broad, rounded wings and short, stubby bill are also distinctive features.
The Bullfinch is slightly smaller than a Starling, measuring around 12-14 cm in length, and is larger than a Blue Tit.
The male Bullfinch has a vibrant red-breast, face, and wings, with a black cap and white rump, giving it a distinctive and eye-catching appearance, with little seasonal variation in its plumage.
The female Bullfinch has a similar shape and markings to the male, but with a more subdued colouration, featuring a brownish-red breast and face, rather than the vibrant red of the male.
The Bullfinch has a soft, wheezing call, often described as a low, nasal "pee-oo" or "wee-oo", which is usually given by both males and females, particularly when in flight or when interacting with other Bullfinches.
Bullfinches are known for their quiet, unobtrusive behaviour, often feeding on seeds, buds, and fruits in woodland edges and gardens, and flying in a swift, direct manner when disturbed, with a distinctive dipping motion.
The Bullfinch can be confused with other finch species, such as the Hawfinch, but can be distinguished by its distinctive black cap, white rump, and red-breast, as well as its shorter tail and more subdued call.
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