The [Common] Linnet (Carduelis cannabina) is a small slim finch that I occasionally encounter on my local patch but a species I associate with coastal, farmland and heathland habitat. This individual was photographed during a visit to Thursley Common in late April so not in full breeding plumage when the forehead and breast is much more predominately red.
This delightful little finch with its melodious twittering (see recording below) was once very popular as a caged bird but the UK population has seen a dramatic breeding decline over the past few decades and hence it has been on the Red Status list since the mid 60's.
Nice shots Frank. Our local Linnets never pose this well for me.
ReplyDeleteGreat photos. I remember reading that they used to be kept as caged birds - the song would certainly make that popular.
ReplyDeleteDelightful time with a sweet bird!
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ALOHA
ComfortSpiral
A bird I hope to see when I visit the UK in a couple of weeks.
ReplyDeleteyes Linnets are delightful little birds and these are good images of them
ReplyDeleteGreat shots Frank. I think its a very underrated bird, and it has a lovely song too.
ReplyDeleteHello, Your Linnet is a beautiful bird! Great shots!
ReplyDeletePretty bird and pretty song.
ReplyDeletewe have plenty round Newark, out in the paddocks with the yellow wagstails, or hanging around on the chain link fence at work at 6am! Very busy little birds on the ground!
ReplyDeleteA sweet bird! I wasn't able to listen to its call.
ReplyDeleteGreat shots!
ReplyDeleteWonderful images of the Linnet
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely bird!
ReplyDeleteFrank, what a sweet bird and what a lovely sound! It makes me think of meadows and pastures!
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