Linaria cannabina
The Linnet is a small finch with a slender build and forked tail. Males in breeding plumage display a striking crimson forehead and breast, contrasting with their grey-brown upperparts and whitish underparts. The wings feature a distinctive white edge.
Females and non-breeding males lack red colouration and instead show heavily streaked brown plumage on their backs and flanks. Both sexes have grey bills and pinkish-brown legs.
Juvenile birds are similar to adult females but more streaked and with an overall duller appearance.
Length
13cm to 14cm
Wingspan
21cm to 25cm
Weight
15g to 20g
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Linnets inhabit open countryside, preferring areas with low vegetation and scattered bushes or trees. They are found across Europe, North Africa, and western Asia, with some populations extending into Central Asia.
In the UK, Linnets are widespread breeding birds found in coastal areas, heathlands, and farmland edges. During winter, some UK birds migrate south, while others arrive from northern Europe to overwinter.
Up to 2,000 meters
Temperate, Subtropical
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Linnet. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
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