GOLDFINCH
One of prettiest visiting birds and certainly one of my favourites. I always try and get a picture if I see one. The adult males and females are unmistakable with their harlequin plumage. Black crown with a red and white face. When flying, they have broad gold wing bars on black wings and a white rump, contrasting with a black tail.
The best time to see them on the island, is during the Spring and Autumn migrations. April and May are good months, as well as October and early November. They particularly like the seeds of thistles, burdocks and dandelions, and can be found where there is plenty of vegetation. Millcombe valley is a favourite, as is the well vegetated parts of the East coast. During the Autumn migration, you can see large flocks along the main track and the fields, feeding on grass seeds.
