Carduelis citrinella
The Citril Finch, Carduelis citrinella, is a vibrant and compact passerine, often considered one of Europe's most attractive finches. Measuring approximately 11-12 cm in length with a wingspan of 20-23 cm and weighing 12-15 grams, adults exhibit striking olive-green upperparts, bright yellow underparts, and a distinctive grey head with a yellow supercilium and throat. Key field marks include the contrasting grey head, bright yellow rump, and dark wings adorned with two prominent yellow wing-b...
This species primarily inhabits high-altitude coniferous forests, particularly spruce and fir, and subalpine meadows across mountainous regions of Europe, typically above 1000 meters.
Primarily granivorous, their diet consists mainly of seeds from conifers (especially spruce and fir), grasses, and various alpine plants, supplemented with small insects, particularly for nestlings.
Citril Finches are diurnal, spending their days actively foraging, often in small, cohesive flocks outside the breeding season, which can grow larger during winter. Their foraging strategy primarily involves gleaning seeds from conifer cones and other alpine plants, but they also feed on the grou...
The Citril Finch is endemic to the mountainous regions of Central and Southern Europe. Its primary breeding range encompasses the Pyrenees, Alps (French, Swiss, Italian, Austrian), Jura, Massif Central, Apennines, and certain parts of the Balkan Mountains. A distinct subspecies, Carduelis citrine...
Least Concern
- The Citril Finch is one of Europe's only truly alpine finches, perfectly adapted to high-altitude environments. - Its scientific name, 'citrinella', is derived from Latin and means 'little lemon-colored bird', a fitting description for its vibrant plumage. - Males perform a striking 'singing fl...