Finch endemic to the Canary Islands - Fringilla canariensis

Fringilla canariensis

03/2022 While hiking on La Gomera we were able to see many beautiful birds in the wild. Some are already used to humans and come very close. I photographed this beautiful finch in a parking lot at a recreational area, Laguna Grande recreational area. According to my research, this should be the endemic species Fringilla canariensis.

Fringilla canariensis, also known as Canary Island or Canary Siskin, is a species of bird from the finch family (Fringillidae). This species is endemic to the Canary Islands and is found in various habitats such as woodland, scrubland and gardens.

The Canary Canary is approximately 12 to 13 cm long with a wingspan of approximately 21 cm. Male birds have a rusty brown forehead and a blue back. The females have less showy plumage which is more of a greyish-brown colour.

Canary canaries feed primarily on seeds and insects and usually live in pairs or small groups. During the breeding season they build their nest in trees or bushes and lay about four to five eggs.