European Goldfinch

Carduelis carduelis

(C. c. loudoni, C. c. frigoris)

Armenian Name:	Կարմրակատար

See Plate 55 for European Goldfinch and other similar species

Resident Status:	Year-round resident
Abundance:	Common
Length:	12 cm, Wing Span:21-25.5 cm
Distribution Map:	Map 319.
Description:	Slim and colorful with bright yellow patch on black wings and a sharply-pointed bill.
Adult:	Red face surrounded by white and black, pale brown mantle, white rump.
Juvenile:	Head, upperparts and breast pale brown with darker streaks.
Behavior:	When foraging on ground, moves with short hops. Often perches on thistle heads.
Habitat:	Woodland edge, shrub thickets, parks, weedy fields.
Food:	Seeds, especially thistle.
Nest:	Cup of stems and plant down, usually high in small tree or shrub.
Eggs:	17 mm, 4-6, bluish-white, reddish spots and lines.