Common Linnet or European Greenfinch?

General appearance

The common linnet, a small passerine bird, has a delicate bill and slender body. Its plumage is mainly brown, its belly white, and it has a distinctive red forehead and chest. It sports black streaks on its upper parts and wings, and a black tail with white edges. The linnet’s size ranges between 11-14cm, and weight around 15-20g.

Male vs female

Male commons linnets are more colorful, featuring a brighter red patch on their chest and forehead, especially during mating season. The female’s contrast is less striking, almost brown with paler underparts. Males also have a slightly more pronounced song, featuring faster notes and chirruping sounds.

Juvenile

Juvenile linnets are similar to females but lack the red chest and forehead. They display a buff tone on their upper parts, streaked with black, and have a plain underbody. Once they reach adulthood, males exhibit the red patches that distinguish the species.

Primary habitat

The common linnet typically inhabits open areas such as heathland, farmland, and gardens. Preferring mild climates, it dwells across Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa.

Additional range

Unexpectedly, the linnet can also be found in urban environments, utilizing parks and green spaces. They occasionally visit bird feeding stations, particularly in winter.

Natural diet

The common linnet primarily feeds on a variety of seeds, including those from dandelions, chickweed, and grasses. During the breeding season, they supplement their diet with small insects, particularly aphids, to provide additional protein for their young.

Bird feeders

At bird feeders, common linnets are known to consume small seeds such as millet and linseed. They are less frequently seen than other common garden birds but are attracted to a mix of seeds typically available in general birdseed blends.