Goldfinches are a common sight in British gardens, but they are becoming more and more popular as their habits change
Goldfinch on Teasel(Image: Getty)
Goldfinches create quite a show when they turn up in gardens with their vivid red faces, golden wing markings and non-stop chatter. Yet whilst these striking birds are frequently spotted nowadays, this hasn’t always been the situation.
For many years, those who love birds had to venture far into rural areas to see them. Nevertheless, their behaviour has evolved over the years.
A mix of diminishing wild food supplies, alterations to agricultural land and shifting weather patterns have driven more goldfinches to seek sustenance in gardens, particularly during winter.
And for those hoping to welcome these stunning birds into their outdoor space, planting a specific flower they adore is amongst the most effective methods. Love dreamy Welsh homes? Sign up to our newsletter here
The Scottish Wildlife Trust states that teasel ranks as one of the goldfinch’s preferred food sources throughout autumn and winter.
The organisation explained: “The seed heads dry out in winter, providing food for the goldfinch. Their thin beaks are ideally suited for tweezing the tiny seeds from between the spikes.”
Changes in farmland and climate have led more goldfinches to search for food in gardens(Image: Getty)
Teasel also benefits garden creatures throughout the entire year, reports the Express.
During summer, its purple blooms draw in insects, whilst its dried seed heads provide sustenance for birds during the colder months.
The plant’s design even captures rainfall, offering birds and insects a small water source when conditions are dry.
Should you prefer not to wait until the following year for plants to mature, the Scottish Wildlife Trust suggests installing a nyjer feeder in your garden. “Nyjer is a tiny seed which goldfinches love,” the charity explained.
“You’ll need a special feeder with small holes so the seeds don’t blow away.”
Gardeners’ World experts describe teasel as a “strikingly architectural” wildflower that can reach up to two metres in height by its second year.
They stated: “The flowers are a magnet for bees, butterflies, and other insects, then masses of tiny seeds are beloved by seed-eating birds, especially goldfinches.Teasel flourishes in sun or partial shade and is adaptable to various soil types, including heavy or damp ground.
Seeds can be sown directly into your garden in spring or autumn, or started off in pots before being planted out.
The experts further advised: “Plant them 45-60cm apart and water them until established. Teasel requires little maintenance, but bear in mind it self-seeds freely, so be prepared to thin out young plants if necessary.
“There’s no requirement to prune teasel, as its dried stems can remain standing through winter, providing shelter for insects.At the end of the season, these can be pulled up and composted or used in wildlife-friendly brash piles.
Goldfinches are known to gather in large groups post-breeding season, sometimes numbering in the thousands.
Their collective term is a “charm”, and with the right selection of plants and feeders, your garden could be fortunate enough to host one.
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