Chaffinch - Fringilla coelebs

The Chaffinch is arguably the most colourful of the UK's finches. Its patterned plumage helps it to blend in when feeding on the ground and it becomes most obvious when it flies, revealing a flash of white on the wings and white outer tail feathers. You'll usually hear Chaffinches before you see them, with their loud song and varied calls.

Around the UK in woodlands, hedgerows, fields, parks and gardens anywhere.

All year round

Formerly the UK's second commonest breeding bird, by the time of a 2020 BTO report it had fallen to fifth place. It does not feed openly on bird feeders - it prefers to hop about under the bird table or under the hedge.  Chaffinches gather in large flocks in winter.

Common as a breeding bird throughout Britain

Abundant as a breeding bird in Leicestershire and Rutland