Madeiran Chaffinch
NameMadeiran Chaffinch
Common NameMadeiran Chaffinch
Scientific NameFringilla coelebs maderensis
FamilyFringillidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)23.5
Plumage DetailsThe male Madeiran Chaffinch features a blue-grey crown and nape, reddish-brown cheeks and throat, and a greenish mantle. Its breast and belly are a greyish-pink, and it has prominent white wing bars and a dark tail with white outer feathers.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations are similar to the Common Chaffinch, including a distinctive 'pink pink' or 'chink chink' call. The song is a lively, complex series of notes, often described as 'chip-chip-chip-cherrrry-erry-erry-tsee-tsee-tsee-chick-weeo!'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the island of Madeira, Portugal, where it is found throughout the island's suitable habitats.
Identifying FeaturesBlue-grey crown and nape (male), Reddish-brown cheeks and throat (male), Prominent white wing bars, Greenish mantle, Endemic to Madeira
Description
The Madeiran Chaffinch is a vibrant subspecies of the Common Chaffinch, endemic to the island of Madeira. Males display striking plumage, while females are more subdued. These birds are typically found foraging for seeds and insects in wooded and cultivated areas.
