Hawfinch
Coccothraustes coccothraustes
Length 18cm

A blue-riband bird for many observers because of impressive appearance, local distribution and retiring nature. A very local resident with a scattered distribution from S England to S Scotland; absent from Ireland. Commonest in SE England in woodland with mature hornbeam or parks with flowering cherry; the hard-cased seeds of both trees are important sources of food. Distinctive even in silhouette because of large size (for a finch) and proportionately massive, conical bill. Has pinkish buff, orange-buff and chestnut elements to plumage, colours of male being brighter than those of female. Large white wingbar obvious in undulating flight. Commonest call a sharp, robin-like tik.