Hawfinch

The Hawfinch (Coccothraustes coccothraustes) is a robust passerine bird, belonging to the finch family Fringillidae. It is the sole representative of its genus, Coccothraustes. This bird is notable for its large, bull-headed appearance, with a particularly hefty bill that is black in summer and paler in winter. The Hawfinch measures 16.5–18 cm in length and exhibits a striking plumage with orange-brown hues on the head, a black eyestripe and bib, dark brown upper parts, and orange underparts. Both sexes are similar in appearance.

Identification Tips

In flight, the Hawfinch's white wing bars and tail tip are conspicuous. Its bulky head and short tail give it a distinctive profile. The bill is massive and conical, aiding in the identification of this species.

Habitat

The Hawfinch prefers deciduous or mixed woodlands with large trees, particularly favoring hornbeam. It is also known to breed in parklands and can be found in human-altered landscapes such as gardens.

Distribution

This species has a wide range across Europe and temperate Asia, with its range extending to the British Isles, North Africa, and occasionally as a rare vagrant to western Alaska. It is mainly resident in Europe, while many Asian birds migrate southward in winter.

Behaviour

Hawfinches are typically seen in pairs or small groups. They are shy and spend much of their time in the treetops, making them somewhat elusive. Their territorial behavior varies with the breeding season, becoming more expansive when not rearing young.

Song & Calls

The call of the Hawfinch is a hard "chick," while its song is subdued and mumbled, often going unnoticed due to the bird's unobtrusive nature.

Breeding

Hawfinches build their nests in bushes or trees and lay 2–7 eggs. They are monogamous, and the pair bond may persist across seasons. The nest is an untidy structure of twigs lined with finer materials.

Similar Species

The Hawfinch's closest relatives include the grosbeaks of East Asia and North America, but its unique features make it relatively easy to distinguish from other species.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Hawfinch is predominantly seeds and fruit kernels, which it adeptly cracks with its powerful bill. Cherries are a particular favorite. It is also known to consume pine seeds, berries, and occasionally insects.

Conservation Status

The Hawfinch is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable global population estimated between 14,700,000 and 50,400,000 individuals. However, there has been a notable decline in the UK population, the causes of which are not fully understood.