Chaffinch
Fringilla coelebs
The Chaffinch is a common and widespread finch species in Britain, typically seen in woodlands, gardens, and farmland throughout the year, with peak sightings during the breeding season from April to July. It is a partial migrant, with some populations remaining in Britain year-round while others migrate to southern Europe and North Africa.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Chaffinch in the field.
The Chaffinch can be identified by its white patches on the wings, brown back, and distinctive white outer tail feathers, as well as its stout body and short, notched tail. Its facial markings, including a white eyebrow and moustachial stripe, are also key identification features.
The Chaffinch is slightly smaller than a Starling, measuring around 12-13 cm in length, and is larger than a Blue Tit.
The male Chaffinch has a striking plumage, with a blue-grey cap, brown back, and reddish-brown face and breast, with a white belly and white patches on the wings, which can vary in intensity depending on the season.
The female Chaffinch has a more subdued plumage, with a brown back, white belly, and a pale brown face and breast, lacking the bright colours of the male, but similar in pattern and markings.
The Chaffinch's call is a sharp, descending "tsee" or "tee-cher", while its song is a melodic, whistled phrase, often described as a series of descending notes, typically sung by males from a prominent perch.
Chaffinches are ground-foraging birds, feeding on seeds, fruits, and insects, and are often seen flying in flocks, with a distinctive undulating flight pattern, and are known for their bold and curious nature.
The Chaffinch can be confused with the Brambling, but can be distinguished by its white outer tail feathers, lack of orange on the breast, and distinctive white wing patches, as well as its more subdued facial markings.
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