The Hawfinch is one of Europe’s most powerful and striking finches. Despite its size and massive bill, it is easily overlooked in gardens because it is shy and prefers high treetops. In winter, however, it appears more frequently at feeding areas, especially in years with abundant beech mast and cherry stones.

EN: Hawfinch
NL: Appelvink
DE: Kernbeißer
Scientific name: Coccothraustes coccothraustes

Identification

Size: 16–18 cm

Plumage:

Rich orange-brown head

Black eye-stripe

Massive triangular bill (pale in winter)

Blue-black wings with white patches

Strong, compact body

Males and females look similar; females are duller.

Winter habitat

Deciduous and mixed forests

Orchard landscapes

Large gardens with mature trees

Parks

Hawfinches rely on trees producing hard seeds such as beech, hornbeam, cherry, and hawthorn.

Diet

Hard seeds (beech mast, cherry stones)

Hawthorn and rose seeds

Split acorns

Insects in spring

At feeders they take:

Sunflower seeds

Peanut pieces

Large mixed seed blends

The Hawfinch’s bill strength can reach up to 50 kg of crushing force, enabling it to crack seeds most birds cannot open.

Behavior

Very shy and alert

Often stays on the edge of the feeding area

Usually solitary or in small groups

Heavy, deliberate flight

Often waits high in a tree before descending

Importance for gardens

A Hawfinch is a rare and impressive winter visitor.
If it appears on your livestream, it becomes a standout moment because it is:

seldom seen up close

visually striking

brief and unpredictable in its visits