Eurasian Linnet
Linaria cannabina
Aves › Passeriformes › Fringillidae › Linaria
Conservation status: least_concern
The common linnet or Eurasian linnet is a small passerine bird of the finch family, Fringillidae. It derives its common name and the scientific name, Linaria, from its fondness for hemp seeds and flax seeds—flax being the English name of the plant from which linen is made.
How To Identify
Medium size passerine with a delicate brown plumage; males are often distinguished by their bright reddish-pink breast and face patterns.
Habitat
It typically inhabits open scrubland, heathland, farmland with thistles and teasels, and weedy areas across Europe and western Asia.
Behaviour
Eurasian Linnets are highly gregarious and often feed in large flocks, particularly outside breeding season, performing coordinated aerial maneuvers while extracting seeds from plants.
Native Range
The Eurasian Linnet is native to Europe, the western Palearctic, and North Africa.
Did You Know?
The Eurasian Linnet has a striking red face and breast in breeding males, earning it the affectionate nickname 'redpoll's colorful cousin.' These acrobatic finches often perform synchronized flight displays in flocks, creating mesmerizing aerial patterns.
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