Eurasian Linnet
NameEurasian Linnet
Common NameEurasian Linnet
Scientific NameLinaria cannabina
FamilyFringillidae
Wingspan (cm)23
Length (cm)13.25
Weight (g)17
Plumage DetailsAdult males in breeding plumage have a grey head, a crimson forehead, and a rosy-red breast. Their back is chestnut brown, and the belly is whitish with streaky flanks. Wings show prominent white bars. Females and non-breeding males lack the red coloration, appearing streaky brown overall with a paler underside.
Vocalization / CallTheir call is a distinctive, rapid, twittering 'chit-chit-chit' or 'twick-twick'. The song is a pleasant, rapid, and varied medley of trills, twitters, and chattering notes, often delivered from a prominent perch.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, coastal, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Europe, western Asia, and North Africa, with some populations migrating south for winter.
Identifying FeaturesSmall finch size, Red forehead and breast (breeding male), Streaky brown plumage (female and non-breeding male), Conical bill, White wing bars visible in flight and at rest
Description
The Eurasian Linnet is a small, slender finch often found in open country. Males in breeding plumage display a distinctive red forehead and breast, while females and non-breeding males are streaky brown. They are typically seen foraging for seeds in flocks.
