Birds and wildlife

Bullfinch

Pyrrhula pyrrhulaGroup: FinchesUK Conservation status:Amber

How to identify

The male Bullfinch is unmistakable with his bright pinkish-red breast and cheeks, grey back, black cap and tail, and bright white rump. The flash of the rump in flight and piping whistled call are usually the first signs of Bullfinches being present. They feed heavily on the buds of various trees in spring and were once considered a pest of fruit crops.

Call

Bullfinch

Niels Krabbe / xeno-canto

Key features to look out for

  • Male Bullfinches chest and cheeks are a pinkish red
  • Contrasting against their black cap and tail

Where and when to see them

Bullfinches can be seen in woodland, orchards and hedgerows. Best looked for at woodland edges – usually located by its mournful call.

Key

  1. Resident
  2. Passage
  3. Summer
  4. Winter
* This map is intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations.
  1. Jan
  2. Feb
  3. Mar
  4. Apr
  5. May
  6. Jun
  7. Jul
  8. Aug
  9. Sep
  10. Oct
  11. Nov
  12. Dec

Where best to see them

Behaviour

Despite their stella looks, Bullfinches are shy birds which are easily spooked and often avoid the limelight. It’s “pew pew” call is often the easiest way to know they’re in your neck of the woods. 

Key facts