I have just seen on my sunflower heart feeder a vividly pinky-red bird - the same sort of colour as when you get an Indian takeaway! I have looked at possibilities and thought maybe bullfinch or crossbill (although I live in the wrong part of the country for the latter) but I am still not sure. The colours on Google Images don't seem as bright as on the RSPB illustrations. I began to doubt myself and thought maybe it was just a robin or a chaffinch but I know that the colour caught my eye and startled me as I was going to put a packet of Mini Eggs in the cupboard - I wasn't looking out for birds so this must have been bright to catch my attention through the window. Unfortunately by the time I had fetched my binoculars it had gone! I will keep my eyes open to see if it returns, but thought I would ask if anyone knew what it was likely to be.
Sounds like a bullfinch to me - they are larger than the other finches commonly found in gardens and rather plump looking birds. The colours on the males are really noticeable.
Millie & Fly the Border Collies
Just seen the bird again this morning and managed to get to my binoculars in time - yes, it looks like a bullfinch. Thanks!
Yes sounds like a bullie to me. I;m so pleased for you,( she says tutting) Never had one in the garden - got to go to the park to delight in them. . One of theses days though.
All I ask is the chance to prove that money can't make me happy. Spike Milligan
Lucky You! We have only seen a couple of Bullfinches (one male and one female) here in West Wales twice in nearly 3 years. Both times they have ignored all the feeders with Sunflower Hearts, Mixed Seeds and even Thistle Seeds and just sat on the fence ... sureying the scene! However, my mother who lives in Surrey - gets regular visits from Bullfinches and they always sit in her Viburnum Tree and eat something off the flowers ... so I have planted one of those here - in the vain hope it might attract the Bullfinches here more often!!!
Happy Bullfinch Watching .. do let us all know what they are feeding on and post some photos if you get the chance. Those of us who are not so lucky - can all drool over them!
Best wishes
DD