Hawfinch
Coccothraustes coccothraustes
The Hawfinch is a rare and elusive visitor to Britain, typically seen in woodland areas, particularly during the autumn and winter months when it may wander from its European breeding grounds. It is a highly sought-after species among British birdwatchers due to its infrequent appearances.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Hawfinch in the field.
The Hawfinch can be identified by its sturdy build, short tail, and distinctive black throat patch, as well as its large, powerful beak and grey-brown plumage with white wing bars. Its head shape and beak size are also notable features.
The Hawfinch is slightly smaller than a Starling, but larger than a Blue Tit, with a compact and robust body.
The male Hawfinch has a grey-brown back, wings, and tail, with a black throat patch and a reddish-brown crown, while its belly and undertail coverts are pale brown.
The female Hawfinch is similar to the male, but with a slightly duller colouration and a less pronounced black throat patch.
The Hawfinch has a sharp, metallic "zink" or "tik" call, often repeated in a series, and a short, simple song consisting of a few whistled notes.
Hawfinches are shy and secretive birds, often feeding on seeds and fruits in woodland canopies, and flying with a swift, direct flight when disturbed, revealing their broad wings and short tail.
The Hawfinch can be confused with other finch species, such as the Brambling or the Chaffinch, but its distinctive black throat patch, large beak, and grey-brown plumage with white wing bars help to distinguish it from these similar species.
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