Taxonomy
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Birds
Order: Passeriformes
Family: Fringillidae
Genus: Pyrrhula
Species: Pyrrhula pyrrhula
Conservation Status of the Species in Portugal and Worldwide
Portugal
World
Features and
Habits
In terms of size, it has a length between 15 and 17 cm and a wingspan between 22 and 29 cm. Regarding its characteristics, the most noticeable aspect is the color of its plumage: salmon-colored on the chest, as well as the black cap on the head and greyish wings. The female has a similar pattern, however with a less vibrant color. They also have a thick beak typical of granivores.
It feeds on seeds, tree buds, fruits, and insects, and during the winter on seeds from trees and shrubs. It is a calm, silent, and discreet bird. It reproduces between April and July. They build their nests in dense trees and shrubs, generally 1 to 5 meters high. The nest is made from branches, moss, lichens, roots, and feathers. The female lays between 4 and 6 eggs and incubates them for 12 to 14 days. After this time, both parents feed the chicks for 14 to 18 days, and after they leave the nest, they remain for a few more weeks.
Habitat and Distribution
It is an uncommon resident bird (present throughout the year) in some areas of northern Portugal, and an uncommon wintering bird (present during the winter) in most of the territory, with the exception of some areas of the Alentejo region. Its habitats are mainly oak forests and riparian woodlands, although it may appear in other habitats. It nests mainly above the Douro River where it is resident, an example being the Peneda-Gerês National Park.
Places where I have photographed this species so far.
All Photographs Taken
