European Greenfinch, a Introduced Common bird in New Zealand

Distribution Map

European Greenfinch

Chloris chloris

IntroducedStatus

CommonRarity

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Species Description

The European greenfinch, introduced to New Zealand in the 1860s, is a stocky finch slightly larger than a house sparrow. It has distinctive green plumage and yellow wing patches, often spotted in gardens and farmlands across the country.

Fun Facts

Greenfinches can form massive flocks, with some containing a few hundred birds and some reaching up to 10,000 birds!

1. Bright yellow bars on wings, especially noticeable in flight.

2. Stocky build with a thick, pink conical bill.

3. Olive-green plumage, more vibrant in males.

Greenfinches breed from October to February in New Zealand, building bulky nests in trees or shrubs. They're social birds, forming large flocks in autumn and winter. While not currently threatened, changes in agricultural practices can affect their populations. Their ability to crack larger seeds than other finches gives them a unique ecological niche.

Look for greenfinches in open woodlands, farmland hedges, and suburban gardens with dense vegetation. They're often seen feeding on the ground or perched in trees and shrubs. Dawn and dusk are prime times to spot them, but they're active throughout the day. Listen for their distinctive calls near bird feeders or seeding plants. Tip: Check for flocking behaviour outside breeding season, often mixing with other finch species.