Greenfinches have a heavy beak for cracking seeds. In Canterbury, very large flocks of hundreds of greenfinches gather to feed on valuable seed crops, such as radish seeds.
Scientific name: Carduelis chloris Other names: European greenfinch, green linnet, greenie
New Zealand Status: Introduced Conservation Status: Naturalised
Where they feed: Ground, shrubs and trees. What they eat: Seeds, invertebrates, buds
Garden types
Greenfinch are found in about 10% of surveyed gardens, irrespective of whether the garden is in a rural or urban area. However, if you feed birds, then your chance of finding a greenfinch in your garden will double.
Garden location
Greenfinches are most likely to be found in gardens on the South Island, particularly Marlborough, Canterbury and Southland. They are least likely to be seen in gardens in Northland and on the West Coast of the South Island.
