The Oriental greenfinch, also known as the grey-capped greenfinch, is a small passerine bird in the finch family Fringillidae that breeds in broadleaf and conifer woodlands of the East Palearctic.
Region
East Asia and East Palearctic
Typical Environment
Breeds from the Russian Far East through northeastern China, Korea, and Japan, with populations south into central and southern China and Taiwan. Occupies open broadleaf and mixed woodlands, forest edges, riverine thickets, farmland with hedgerows, parks, and gardens. In winter it spreads into lowlands, coasts, and agricultural fields where seeds are abundant. It tolerates urban areas and frequently uses green spaces and shrubby edges.
Altitude Range
0–2600 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the grey-capped greenfinch, this small finch is common across East Asia and adapts well to human-altered landscapes. Males show brighter yellow panels in the wings and tail that flash in flight. It forms sizable winter flocks and often visits feeders for sunflower and millet seeds. Formerly placed in Carduelis, it is now in the genus Chloris with other Old World greenfinches.
Eggs of Oriental greenfinch MHNT
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with undulating flight
Social Behavior
Often forms flocks outside the breeding season, sometimes mixing with other finches. Breeding pairs are territorial around nest sites, building a cup nest in shrubs or small trees. Clutches typically contain 3–5 eggs, and both parents feed the young, with the female incubating.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a lively series of trills and twittering notes, delivered from a perch or during a brief display flight. Calls include a sharp dzwee and soft twitters used to keep contact in flocks.
