The Eurasian bullfinch, also referred to as the common bullfinch or simply bullfinch (scientifically named Pyrrhula pyrrhula), is a small bird belonging to the finch family, Fringillidae. In English-speaking regions of Europe, it holds the title of the original bird to be called a bullfinch.
The Eurasian bullfinch is a plump bird with a sturdy head. Its back and wings are a shade of gray, while its flight feathers and beak are black. Adult bullfinches have a black cap and face (juveniles have a more brownish-gray color), and in flight, their eye-catching white rump and wing bars stand out. Male bullfinches sport vibrant red underparts, while females and juveniles have a more muted gray-buff color. Unlike some other finches, the Eurasian bullfinch goes through a molt from July to October but retains its striking plumage year-round without the duller autumn colors.
The Bullfinch is a discreet bird known for its unique song, characterized by delicate fluted whistles that have often been described as mournful. Its typical call is a soft, low, melancholic whistle, often resembling a “peeu” or “pew.” The song is only audible from close proximity and consists of a weak, scratchy warbling that alternates with gentle whistles. Interestingly, tamed Bullfinches can be trained to mimic specific melodies.
In terms of distribution, this bird species can be found breeding across Europe and temperate Asia. While it is primarily a resident bird, many northern individuals migrate southward during the winter season. When it comes to their preferred habitat, Bullfinches tend to inhabit mixed woodlands with some coniferous trees, as well as parklands and gardens. Unlike other bird species, they do not frequently form large flocks outside of the breeding season, and are typically observed in pairs or small family groups.
Reproduction:
The bird constructs its home in a shrub, choosing those that are at least four meters in height and width. It also opts for fully developed clusters of undergrowth, or even trees. During this process, it lays a batch of four to seven light blue eggs that display red-brown speckles. An interesting characteristic of this species within the Passeriformes is its spermatozoa, which possess a rounded head and a blunt acrosome. Furthermore, this particular bird species is known to have two or three sets of offspring within a single breeding season, spanning from early May through mid-July.
Dining Preferences:
When it comes to its meals, the Eurasian bullfinch has a distinct fondness for seeds and the buds of fruit trees. This particular dietary preference, however, has caused some troubles for orchards in England, where the bird has been deemed a pest for centuries. In fact, in order to control its population, every parish used to offer a reward for every Eurasian bullfinch that was eliminated. During the autumn and early winter seasons, the bird particularly enjoys feasting on ash and hawthorn. If land is designated and covered with vegetation specifically for wild birds, the Eurasian bullfinch tends to gravitate towards kale, quinoa, and millet. Ideally, these feeding grounds would be situated adjacent to tall hedges or woodland areas.
