All About Siskins - Siskin Bird Facts & Information

About Siskin Birds

During the winter, one of the most visually striking wild garden birds arrives to the UK. These relatively small birds are best known for their streaky yellow green body with a black crown and bib and a distinctly forked tail: it’s easy to tell the male and female Siskin apart as the male is much more vibrant in colour. 

The Siskin is a part of the finch family and has characteristic and recognisable vocalisation. Its song is often described as a series of rapid, high pitched trills and chirps, which can be heard especially from breeding birds. 

They may only be small, but the Siskin species are not hard to miss when they visit gardens as they often flock together with their distinctive call resonating through the woods as they forage for food together, they may even be seen hanging upside down to reach tree seeds.

In the winter, you’ll find the little Siskin gathered with other species, such as the Lesser Redpoll, to feed on seeds from trees, garden feeders and bird tables. 

Winter Birds - Do Siskins Migrate?

Although many breeding birds stay in the UK all year round, you’ll find the European Siskin is a winter visitor here in the UK - so they are just arriving as the weather begins to cool down.

Each year when winter begins, bird enthusiasts await the first sight of this bright yellow wild garden bird on a garden bird feeder as they migrate from breeding areas.

Originating, and breeding, in Northern Europe, a Siskin will migrate to the UK to seek refuge during the colder months. They are known to visit garden feeders due to the abundance of food provided and the slightly warmer weather means they are able to thrive before heading home for their breeding season. 

Where do Siskins live?

In the UK, Siskins are found in a variety of habitats. Primarily they prefer coniferous and mixed woodland.

Frequently, these UK birds will make a home in mature forests and woodlands - especially those with a diverse range of tree species. With the spread of conifer plantations, the range of Siskins in the UK has expanded.

In the winter months, natural food sources may be harder to find, so Siskins are attracted to gardens with bird feeders that offer sunflower seeds, niger seeds and other nutritious seeds. 

In some regions of the UK, particularly in Scotland and parts of Wales, Siskins may also inhabit heathland and moorland habitats, especially if there are scattered patches of woodland or shrubby vegetation.

Siskin Lifespan 

As for their lifespan, Siskins in the UK typically have a similar lifespan to those in other parts of their range, averaging around 2 to 5 years in the wild. However, some individuals may live longer under favourable conditions, while others may succumb to predation, harsh weather, or other environmental factors.

Siskin Breeding Season

During March to July, the Breeding Siskins become devoted parents engaging in various activities to have a successful breeding season. 

In an elaborate courtship display to attract a mate, the male Siskin will sing complex songs, perform aerial displays and show off with his vibrant plumage. Once he has found his match, the pair will begin to build their nest. 

Typically, a Siskin nest is constructed high up in coniferous trees or shrubs using twigs, grass and moss. Well hidden amongst foliage, this nest will provide protection from predators. 

Once the nest has been built, the female Siskin will lay a clutch of four to five eggs (she will usually lay one per day). The eggs are small and pale blue in colour with dark speckles. For 12-14 days, the female will incubate the eggs and keep them warm until they hatch. 

Once hatched, both the mum and dad will take on feeding and caring for the young birds. They regurgitate food to feed to the hungry young Siskins - this will usually consist of seeds, insects and other small invertebrates. Within a few weeks, the chicks are ready to explore their surroundings. 

What do Siskins Eat?

Siskins are primarily granivorous birds, meaning they predominantly feed on seeds. 

Their diet primarily consists of seeds from various tree species, including conifers such as spruce, pine, and fir, as well as deciduous trees like birch and alder. They have a particular love for the seeds of alder trees. 

Additionally, Siskins also consume seeds from plants such as thistles, dandelions, and grasses. During the breeding season, they may supplement their diet with insects and other small invertebrates to provide additional protein for themselves and their young. 

In urban areas, Siskins are known to visit bird feeders, where they readily consume sunflower seeds, niger seeds, and other types of seeds provided by humans.

Siskins Predators

Avian predators such as birds of prey like hawks and barn owls pose a threat to adult Siskins when they are in vulnerable positions such as foraging, while their nests and eggs are vulnerable to nest predators including crows, jays, and squirrels. 

Additionally, small mammals like weasels and snakes may raid Siskin nests for eggs or chicks. In their natural habitat, Siskins have evolved behaviours such as nesting high in trees and maintaining a vigilant lookout for predators to minimise the risk of predation.

How to Attract Siskins into your Garden

This wild garden bird mainly eats tree seeds - so offer a variety of seeds to increase the number of Siskins visiting gardens. A feeder filled with sunflower seeds, nyjer (thistle) seeds or mixed seed blends to get this little yellow feathered friend enjoying your outside space. 

Similar to all other species of birds, Siskins need access to clean water for drinking and bathing. Provide a small, shallow bird bath or dish so that these birds can keep their feathers looking fresh. 

In wild areas and natural habitats, you’ll find Siskins in spaces with lots of shelter from vegetation - this is because it helps them feel safe and has less risk from predators. In your garden, planting dense shrubs and bushes can make your outside space more attractive to these birds. 

Five Facts about Siskins

1. Siskins are known for their acrobatic feeding behaviour. They can often be seen clinging to the sides of seed heads or hanging upside down to access seeds, showing off their agility and flexibility.

2. While Siskins may appear drab at first glance, especially the females, male Siskins boast striking plumage during the breeding season. They feature bright yellow-green bodies, contrasting with black wings marked by distinctive yellow patches on their primary feathers.

3. Siskins are social birds that often form small flocks, especially during the non-breeding season and during migration. These flocks may consist of other finch species, and they communicate with each other through a variety of calls and songs.

4. Siskins exhibit nomadic tendencies, meaning they can be somewhat unpredictable in their movements. Depending on food availability and other factors, they may move widely across their range in search of suitable foraging grounds.

    

5. While Siskins typically breed in the spring and early summer, their breeding patterns can be highly variable, influenced by factors such as food availability and weather conditions. In some years, they may breed prolifically, while in others, breeding activity may be limited.