Wildlife

Wild Siskin and Redpoll Winter Garden Welfare

Siskins and lesser redpolls are attractive winter finches that have adapted to use garden feeders. Their welfare is tied to birch and alder seed availability and garden feeding provision.

Key Facts

Siskins traditionally feed in alder and birch trees but have adapted to peanut feeders
Lesser redpoll populations declined by 90% between 1970 and 2010
Both species are irruptive - numbers in any winter depend on continental seed crops
Garden feeding stations provide a crucial winter supplement when natural seeds are scarce

Welfare Considerations

Siskin and redpoll welfare in gardens is improved by providing nyjer seed and small seeds at clean feeders. Maintaining birch and alder trees in gardens and parks provides natural feeding habitat.

What You Can Do

Offer nyjer seed and small sunflower hearts in garden feeders for winter finches
Plant native birch trees in gardens for natural siskin and redpoll foraging
Record winter finch visitors through BTO Garden BirdWatch surveys