The Canary Islands chaffinch is a species of passerine bird in the finch family Fringillidae. It was formerly considered to be a subspecies group within the widespread Eurasian chaffinch F. coelebs, but was recently revised to be a species in its own right, following a genetic and morphological analysis of the genus Fringilla in 2021. It is endemic to the Canary Islands, and is thought to be largely resident within its distribution.
Region
Macaronesia
Typical Environment
Occurs across wooded habitats on the Canary Islands, including laurel forests (laurisilva), Canary Island pine forests, thermophilous shrublands, and mixed farmland with hedgerows. It frequents forest edges, ravines, gardens, and parks, especially where native trees provide cover and seeds. The species forages both on the ground and in low to mid canopy. It generally avoids the most arid open lava fields and the harshest high-alpine zones above the treeline.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Recognized as a distinct species in 2021 after genetic and morphological studies separated it from the Eurasian chaffinch. Males show island-specific shades of blue-grey and pink, while females are more subdued and brownish. It is largely resident across the Canary Islands and exhibits notable song dialects between islands. Nestlings are fed primarily on insects even though adults eat many seeds.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with undulating flight
Social Behavior
Forms small flocks outside the breeding season and forages in loose groups. In spring, pairs defend territories in forested areas and build neat cup nests in trees or tall shrubs, often well camouflaged. Typically raises one to two broods depending on conditions.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Male song is a bright, varied series of trills and phrases ending in a emphatic flourish, with dialect differences among islands. Calls include a sharp 'pink' and soft contact notes used while foraging.
Plumage
Male with bluish-grey head and nape, pinkish underparts, greenish to olive back, and bold white double wing-bars; female is brownish and more uniformly patterned. Both sexes show white outer tail feathers and neat, crisp wing panels.
Diet
Eats a mix of small seeds, buds, and fruits supplemented by insects and other invertebrates. During the breeding season, adults gather caterpillars, beetles, and spiders for nestlings. Foraging includes gleaning from foliage and branches as well as picking items from the ground. It also visits human-altered areas to exploit spilled seeds and weed patches.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along forest floors, leaf litter, and low vegetation in laurel and pine forests. Also uses hedgerows, orchards, and gardens, especially at forest edges and clearings.
