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The European serin is a small finch, measuring around 11 cm, with green-yellowish plumage and a forked tail. Males have brighter yellow heads and breasts, while females are browner and less distinctive. They are found in southern, central, and eastern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, often in coniferous woodlands, parks, and gardens, and are known for their loud, scratchy song. Their diet consists of seeds, buds, and small invertebrates.
Identification
Size: Small, about 11 cm long.
Plumage: Green-yellowish with darker vertical stripes and a lighter belly. Both sexes have an intense yellow at the front of the tail.
Male: Brighter yellow on the head and breast.
Female: Browner and less vibrant than males.
Bill: Broad and short.
Tail: Forked and notched.
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Habitat and distribution
Habitat: Coniferous woodlands, agricultural areas, parks, and gardens.
Distribution: Southern, central, and eastern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.
Migration: The northern populations are partially migratory.
Behavior and diet
Diet: Small seeds, leaf and flower buds, and small invertebrates.
Song: Known for its loud, scratchy song, often sung in the open.
Life Span: Typically 3 to 5 years, though the oldest recorded was 13 years old.
Threats
Habitat loss: Urbanization and over-maintenance of green spaces can reduce food sources.
Pesticides: Widespread use of herbicides can decrease their food supply.
Bird trapping: The trapping of birds for sale is a threat.
Population decline: Overall numbers have declined in parts of their range, partly due to a reduction in individuals from neighboring countries.
