The Goldfinch - Carduelis carduelis

The Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis

"Charms" of Goldfinch will often be seen feeding in meadows on thistledown and teasel.  This love of prickly plants has led to the birds being associated with Christ’s Passion.  The story goes that a goldfinch flew down to the cross and pulled a thorn from Christ’s brow leaving the bird’s faces splashed with the blood of Christ.  In medieval pictures Goldfinch are often placed with the Madonna and child, sometimes the goldfinches are in Christ’s hands forewarning us of the crucifixion.  The birds are also seen next to John the Baptist and Saint Jerome.  Other common names are Saviour Birds, Thistle Tweakers and Thistle Finch. (There must be many other names for these very distinctive birds)

In the 19th century Goldfinches were were caged like canaries and renowned for their beauty and pretty song. 

  

Madonna and Goldfinch by Raffael 1505-6 (Wikipedia)

BRITISH BIRDS IN THIS SERIES SO FAR

Bullfinch

Gold Finch

House Sparrow

Mute Swan

Blue Tit

Long Tailed Titmice 

Robin