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Charms of goldfinches are everywhere to be seen on the Kinson Common.
This species is resident throughout the year.
The head of the adult bird is distinctive. Red,white and black markings set this
handsome finch apart from related species. The wing pattern and underside are also marked with black and white with a very bright yellow streak on the wing bar.
Immature birds are more dully marked.
Haunt. Almost everywhere on the Common.
In the summer it will be seen where all types of thistles grow.
In the winter it will come to feed on the exposed Poole lane
meadows.
Nest. The well hidden nest in usually built in any suitable bush or tree.
It is well constructed using roots, mosses, lichens, natural hairs
and thistle down and is always elaborate.
Eggs. 4-6 are laid from May onwards. The smaller eggs are similar to
those of the Greenfinch.
The ground colour can be either cream or bluish-green, spotted
and blotched with browns, purple and black.
Food. Seeds and insects.
Notes. Very distinctive tinkling twitters.
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