European Serin

Overview

The European serin (Serinus serinus) is the smallest species of the family of finches (Fringillidae) and is closely related to the Atlantic canary. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• A small, short-tailed bird measuring 11–12 cm in length.
• Upper parts are dark-streaked greyish green with a yellow rump; the yellow breast and white belly are heavily streaked.
• Males display a brighter yellow face and breast, along with yellow wing bars and tail sides.
• The song is described as a buzzing trill, which is very familiar in Mediterranean countries.

Habitat

This species breeds across southern and central Europe and North Africa, favouring open woodland and cultivation, often with some conifers. While southern and Atlantic coast populations are largely resident, northern breeders migrate further south in Europe for the winter.

Diet

The diet consists mainly of a combination of buds and seeds, and includes insects during the breeding season.

Did you know?

The Latin name serinus comes from the French word serin for a canary, which may be a corruption of the Latin word citrinus meaning "lemon-coloured".