Berry-loving bullfinches are paying my garden a visit

FOR us humans, many autumn berries are anything but appetising – and in some cases downright dangerous. But the sturdy constitutions of birds are able to stomach a whole variety with no ill effect.

In fact, the trees and shrubs bearing such shiny temptations ensure their bright colours catch the eye, advertising the tasty treats on offer in the hope passing birds will tuck in, eventually distributing the seeds within their droppings.

A plentiful crop of red berries decorating a type of honeysuckle covering an arch at the bottom of my garden has become particularly irresistible to avian visitors.

In the past they have attracted redwings and marsh tits at this time of year. And over the last couple of weeks one of my favourites has become a regular on the leafy arch: bullfinches.

The male bullfinch is an incredibly handsome species, with his rosy-red chest, grey back and black wings and tail. But the more understated plumbrown female is also smart and attractive. Both have a glossy black cap, which extends forwards around the stubby little dark beak, and a square white rump visible in flight, which can be a key identification feature.

They are shy, however, and good views are something to treasure. So I was amazed the other day when I picked out their simple whistles from the garden hedge and managed a decent view of a female – even snapping a photo (right). The male eluded my lens, and I assumed that they would stop visiting now the honeysuckle bounty is nearly gone. But yesterday I was amazed to see not one, but two male bullfinches picking off some of the few remaining berries.

If I could somehow tape more berries onto the climber to keep them coming back I would. In the meantime I have hastily hung up a seed feeder beside the honeysuckle in the hope they consider it worth a visit. I need top culinary advice on their favourite foods. Mary Berry could be worth a call...

Charlie Elder A female bullfinch on the honeysuckle arch