Hawfinch

The hawfinch, an imposing member of the finch family, is characterized by its powerful beak and its preference for hard seeds. This fact sheet provides a detailed overview of the biology and ecology of the hawfinch and emphasizes the importance of its protection and conservation in natural and human habitats.

Hawfinch Products

Profile: Hawfinch

  • Scientific classification

    • Class: Aves (birds)
    • Order: Passeriformes (Passerines)
    • Family: Fringillidae (finches)
    • Genus: Coccothraustes
    • Species: C. coccothraustes (Groanfinch)

  • Physical characteristics

    • Size: Body length of 18-23 cm
    • Weight: 50-70 g
    • Special features: Powerful build, large head, massive beak, strong legs and feet, striking black facial mask, bright orange belly.

  • Habitat and distribution

    • Common regions: Europe, Asia, North Africa
    • Habitat: Diverse, from deciduous and coniferous forests to parks and gardens to rural areas with abundant tree cover.

  • Nutrition

    • Diet: Herbivore
    • Typical food: seeds, especially hard seeds of beech, oak and pine, but also berries, buds and insects in summer.

  • Reproduction and lifestyle

    • Breeding season: spring to summer
    • Nest building: In trees, often high in dense treetops
    • Egg laying: 3-5 eggs per clutch
    • Brood care: Both parents participate in raising the young
    • Social structure: Mostly in pairs or small family groups.

  • Lifespan and protection status

    • Life expectancy: Up to 10 years in the wild
    • Endangered status: Not threatened, but habitat loss due to deforestation and intensive agriculture may affect local populations.
    • Conservation measures: Preservation and protection of habitats with rich tree populations, promotion of sustainable forest management, creation of nesting boxes and feeding stations.
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