Eurasian Siskin: In winter

The Eurasian Siskin is partly resident and partly a short-distance migrant, and its winter habits are strongly governed by the seed supply.

• Flocks: in winter siskins gather in large, mobile flocks, often along alder-lined shores where they hang acrobatically in the tops.
• Diet: alder, birch and spruce seeds are winter food, and at bird tables niger seeds and small sunflower seeds are taken.
• Irruptions: in some years there are outright irruptions southwards when the seed crop in the breeding areas fails.

The species is therefore most conspicuous in flocks among alder stands from October to April.

More about the Eurasian Siskin

• Song & calls
• Breeding
• Nest & eggs
• Diet