Description:

The Siskin is one of our smallest finches (smaller than a Goldfinch). It has a relatively long and narrow bill for a finch and also has a distinctive forked tail. The plumage is predominantly a yellow-green colour, with a striking yellow band on the wing and yellow patches at the base of the tail. Adult males have a black crown and a lot of black in the wing, which contrasts with the yellow wing-band. Females are greener in colour than the males, streaked above and without the black crown. Juveniles resemble females but are buff-brown above and more heavily streaked (both above and below).

Ecology & Behaviour:

The breeding range of Siskins within Britain has expanded following the spread of new conifer plantations. This, coupled by the exploitation of peanuts provided in gardens, has resulted in a dramatic increase in the number of Siskins visiting gardens during the late winter months. Almost invariably it is after the New Year that Siskins begin to be reported in increasing numbers in gardens. In spring, there is a rapid movement of birds away from gardens and back to the breeding areas. Birds continuing to visit gardens during the breeding season will be local breeders, with adults accompanied by young a feature of late summer in these areas.

Movements into gardens to feed quite possibly occur after the alder seed crop has been exhausted. This is supported by the way in which the peak Garden BirdWatch reporting rate for Siskin varies from year to year, corresponding to the quality of the seed crop.

Garden BirdWatch links

A 'Focus On' article on the Siskin appeared in issue 1 of the Bird Table magazine. Garden BirdWatch participants can download a copy of this article from the participant only pages.