Location 1: Goldfinches and Teasel
If you watched WinterWatch 2025 on BBC TV you may have noticed there was a bit about Goldfinches and Teasels. If not, here’s the detail:
- Goldfinches are specialised in eating teasel seeds – their beaks are just the right size to get between the spiky defences of the outer head and access the seeds, which are stored in a hollow space at the centre of the heads.
- Females, which tend to overwinter on the continent, have beaks which are usually too short to penetrate, whereas the males’ beaks are slightly longer, allowing them access to the seeds. So, it seems likely that it is mostly males you will observe on Teasel seed heads.
- Want to know more about these species? Follow the links below for more information:
- Teasel facts at The Wildlife Trusts: https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife-explorer/wildflowers/teasel
- Goldfinch information at the RSPB (including identification and song recordings: https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/goldfinch)