Eurasian Siskin

The Eurasian siskin (Spinus spinus), a small passerine bird in the finch family Fringillidae, is commonly known across Europe and Eurosiberia. It is a diminutive bird with a distinctive plumage, characterized by greyish green upper parts and grey-streaked white underparts. The wings are black with a prominent yellow wing bar, and the tail is black with yellow sides. Males boast a mainly yellow face and breast, topped with a neat black cap, while females and juveniles display a greyish green head without the cap.

Identification Tips

Adult male Eurasian siskins are easily identified by their bright green and yellow plumage with a black cap and an unstreaked throat and breast. Females and juveniles are more olive-toned, with yellow and green hues and a pure white underpart that is often unstreaked at the belly and lower breast. The broad and yellow wingbars, tipped with white, and the short bill with a decurved culmen are key features for identification.

Habitat

Eurasian siskins favor forested areas, particularly coniferous woodland, for breeding. They build their nests in trees, often in spruce, and are also found in mixed woodland. During winter, they may frequent stubble fields and areas with seed-bearing trees.

Distribution

This species is widespread across Eurosiberia and parts of North Africa. It breeds in two main zones within the Palearctic realm and overwinters in regions such as the Mediterranean basin and around the Black Sea. Occasionally, the Eurasian siskin is sighted in North America.

Behaviour

Eurasian siskins are sociable, forming small flocks, especially outside the breeding season. They exhibit a trusting nature towards humans, allowing close observation. However, during breeding, they become more solitary and elusive. Their migration pattern is unusual, with large numbers moving southwards every few years, possibly in response to food availability.

Song & Calls

The song is a pleasant mix of twitters and trills, often sung in groups throughout the year. Calls include a descending "tilu" and an ascending "tluih," along with a harsh rattling chirrup.

Breeding

Pairs form in winter, with males displaying and singing to attract females. Nests are built high in coniferous trees, and 2-6 eggs are laid. The female incubates the eggs for 10-14 days, and the altricial chicks fledge after about 15 days.

Diet and Feeding

Eurasian siskins are granivorous, feeding on seeds from trees such as alder, birch, and conifers. During breeding, they consume more insects to provide protein for their chicks. They are acrobatic feeders, often hanging upside-down to access food.

Conservation Status

With an estimated global population of 20 to 36 million, the Eurasian siskin is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. There is no significant decline in numbers, and the species is protected under the Berne Convention.

Relationship with Humans

The Eurasian siskin is appreciated in aviculture for its song and appearance. It adapts well to captivity but does not breed prolifically. Hybrids with other finches, such as canaries, are known both in captivity and in the wild. The species has been featured on postage stamps and has cultural significance in various regions.