Hawfinch
Coccothraustes coccothraustes
The hawfinch (Coccothraustes coccothraustes) is a passerine bird in the finch family Fringillidae.
About the Hawfinch
The hawfinch (Coccothraustes coccothraustes) is a passerine bird in the finch family Fringillidae. It is the only extant species placed in the genus Coccothraustes. Its closest living relatives are the genus Eophona of East Asia, and Hesperiphona of Central and North America. This bird breeds across Europe and temperate Asia (Palearctic). It is mainly resident in Europe, but many Asian birds migrate further south in the winter. It is a rare vagrant to the western islands of Alaska. Deciduous or mixed woodland, including parkland, with large trees – especially hornbeam – is favoured for breeding. The hawfinch builds its nest in a bush or tree, and lays 2–7 eggs. The food is mainly seeds and fruit kernels, especially those of cherries, which it cracks with its powerful bill. This large finch
Fun Facts About Hawfinch
- The hawfinch builds its nest in a bush or tree, and lays 2–7 eggs.
- The 16.5–18 cm long hawfinch is a bulky bull-headed bird, which appears very short-tailed in flight.
- This large finch species is usually seen in a pair or small group.
- This bird breeds across Europe and temperate Asia (Palearctic).
- The white wing bars and tail tip are striking in flight.
Conservation Status
The Hawfinch is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. This species is currently stable and not at significant risk of population decline.
Taxonomy & Classification
| Order | passerines |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Coccothraustes |
| Species | Coccothraustes coccothraustes |
Range & Habitat
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Other species in the Fringillidae family: