Species Profile
Common Rosefinch
Carpodacus erythrinus
Quick Facts
Conservation
LCLeast ConcernLifespan
2–3 years
Length
13–15 cm
Weight
19–27 g
Wingspan
22–26 cm
Migration
Long-distance Migrant
Also known as: Scarlet Rosefinch
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Appearance
The Common Rosefinch exhibits striking sexual dimorphism. Breeding males display a vibrant raspberry-red head, breast, and rump, contrasting with brown wings and tail. Their plumage becomes duller outside the breeding season.
Females and juveniles have an overall brown colouration with subtle streaking. Both sexes have stout, conical beaks adapted for seed-eating and relatively short tails.
Identification & Characteristics
Male Colors
- Primary
- Red
- Secondary
- Pink
- Beak
- Grey
- Legs
- Brown
Female Colors
- Primary
- Brown
- Secondary
- Buff
- Beak
- Grey
- Legs
- Brown
Female Markings
Streaked brown plumage with no red coloration
Attributes
Understanding Attributes
Rated 0–100 based on research and observation. A score of 50 is average across all bird species. These attributes are relative and don't necessarily indicate superiority.
Habitat & Distribution
Common Rosefinches inhabit many habitats, including open woodlands, forest edges, scrublands, and even parks and gardens. They breed across northern Europe and Asia, from Scandinavia to Japan.
During winter, they migrate to southern Asia, including India and Southeast Asia. They are rare visitors in the UK, occasionally spotted during migration periods.
Distribution
Diet
The Common Rosefinch primarily feeds on seeds, buds, and fruits. It has a particular fondness for berries and will also consume small insects, especially when feeding young. Its strong beaks allow it to crack open tough seeds efficiently.
Behaviour
Common Rosefinches are often seen perched prominently while singing. They forage in small flocks, moving through vegetation with quick, agile movements.
During courtship, males perform elaborate flight displays, ascending high before descending in spirals while singing.
Calls & Sounds
Nesting & Breeding
Breeding season for Common Rosefinches typically begins in late May or early June. Males establish territories and attract females with their melodious songs and vibrant plumage.
Nests are built by females, usually in shrubs or small trees. They are cup-shaped structures made of twigs, grass, and rootlets lined with finer materials. A clutch typically consists of 4-6 pale blue eggs with dark speckles.
Incubation lasts about 11-13 days, and the female primarily performs it. Both parents feed the nestlings, which fledge after approximately 12-14 days but remain dependent on their parents for several more weeks.
Conservation
While listed as Least Concern globally, the Common Rosefinch faces localised threats from habitat loss and climate change. Conservation efforts focus on preserving diverse habitats across its range, particularly in breeding areas.
Birdwatching Tips
- Listen for their distinctive, sweet whistling song
- Look for males perched on exposed branches during the breeding season
- Check scrubby areas and forest edges in appropriate habitats
- Observe foraging behaviour in small flocks outside the breeding season
Did You Know?
- The Common Rosefinch can imitate the calls of other bird species.
- Their red plumage is derived from carotenoid pigments in their diet.
- In some parts of their range, they are considered agricultural pests due to their fondness for fruit crops.
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