Common Linnet

Overview

The common linnet, or Eurasian linnet (Linaria cannabina), is a small passerine bird in the finch family Fringillidae. It derives its name from a fondness for hemp and flax seeds. The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, though populations in the UK are declining.

Identification

• Slim body with a long tail, grey bill, and sullied white throat.
• Summer males feature a grey nape, red head-patch, and red breast.
• Females and young birds lack red plumage, possessing white underparts with buff streaking on the breast.
• Pleasant song characterised by fast trills and twitters.

Habitat

Breeds in Europe, the western Palearctic, and North Africa, favouring open land with thick bushes such as heathland and gardens. It is partially resident, but many northern and eastern birds migrate south or to coasts, sometimes appearing hundreds of miles off-shore. The species has also been introduced to the Dominican Republic.

Diet

Forages on the ground and low in bushes, feeding mainly on seeds from arable weeds, dock, crucifers, thistle, and birch. It also consumes a small component of invertebrates. Seeds are also fed to its chicks.

Did you know?

The common linnet was a popular pet in the late Victorian and Edwardian eras, featuring in literature from Charles Dickens to Oscar Wilde. The Eurovision Song Contest 2014 entry for the Netherlands, 'The Common Linnets', is a direct reference to the bird.