What they like

Sun, openness and above all: seed. Thistles, teasel, evening primrose, burdock, dandelion, rosebay willowherb. Leave a corner of the garden or park “messy” with spent stems; you’ll often see it hanging like an acrobat, pecking away. On farmyards and in agricultural areas a wide, herb-rich field edge with thistles and other seed-bearers works wonders. In winter: offer black sunflower seed or nyjer, preferably near shrubs where it can make a quick getaway.

Ecological importance

The goldfinch is a seed-eater with taste. It keeps thistles in check, but only if you let them bloom and set seed. It is also on the menu for the sparrowhawk and house cat: give it cover with dense shrubs and hedges, such as hawthorn and blackthorn.

When in the Netherlands

All year round. In late summer and winter often in small groups, sometimes with siskins and finches.

Status

Common to fairly common. Locally dependent on how much “weed” and seed are still allowed to exist.