The goldfinch is one of Britain's most colourful birds and has bucked the trend of farmland bird declines, partly due to garden feeding, but still depends on seed-rich habitats.
Goldfinch welfare is threatened by loss of seed-rich grassland and hedgerow margins, though the species has adapted well to suburban environments. Pesticide use on arable farmland removes the thistle and knapweed seed sources they depend on. Garden feeders and wild flower patches make a real difference.