Serin (Serinus serinus)
Length: 11 to 12cm Wingspan: 18 to 20cm Weight 12 to 15g Lifespan 2 to 3 years.
Family: Fringillidae.
In the family of finches, the European serin is the smallest European species
The male being much brighter than the female, having a more of a yellow face and breast.
This species is very closely related to the Canary, hence the Latin name “serinus” comes from the French word “serin” for a canary. Some young and dull in colour Canary escapes, can also be mistaken for the Serin.
The European serin song is a buzzing and rapid trill, a distinctive and familiar sound in the Mediterranean countries.
It is widespread and breeds mainly in North Africa and most of the European countries, bordering the Mediterranean. Will also nest in central Europe but only a vagrant the further north of Europe.
The birds that venture further North in Europe to breed will migrate further south in the winter months.
Habitat: Woodlands (often with conifers which are a favourite for nesting), orchards, vineyards, olive groves, town parks, farmlands and along hedgerows.
May to July:
Nests are often made in a bushy shrubs or densely covered trees, laying between 3 to 5 eggs; two to three broods a year.
Feeding: Mainly on very small seeds, mostly feeding from the ground. In the breeding season will also feed on various insects.
Outside of breeding season will be seen in flocks with other finches.