Bullfinchs in Portugal
When the Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula) is present in Portugal, when it nests, and which native Portugal plants supply the food it depends on.
- Status in Portugal
- Winter visitor
- Nesting season
- Does not breed here
- Size
- 15.5 cm, 21 g
When to expect bullfinchs in Portugal
The Bullfinch reaches Portugal for the winter from breeding grounds further north and east. Mild, wet winters that attract many wintering European songbirds.
Mediterranean with strong Atlantic influence, wetter in the north.
Native Portugal plants for bullfinchs
Of the native plants we track for Portugal, these 8 provide food the Bullfinch uses:
Haws feed thrushes all winter; spring blossom supports hundreds of insect species.
Orange-red berries are a magnet for Blackbirds, thrushes and Waxwings from August.
Evergreen roosting cover and winter berries on female plants.
Late-winter berries when little else is left, plus dense nesting cover.
Late-summer berries taken by Blackcaps and thrushes.
Thorny cover that protects nests; early blossom for insects.
Hips persist into winter for thrushes and finches.
Translucent red berries in autumn.
Feeding in the garden
Buds, seeds and berries.
- Best foods: Sunflower hearts.
- Feeders: Open table.
- Shy; feeds near thick hedges and eats ash keys and bramble seed.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked
Are bullfinchs in Portugal all year?
No. The Bullfinch is a winter visitor to Portugal and breeds further north or east.
Which native plants help bullfinchs in Portugal?
Hawthorn, Rowan, Holly, Ivy, Elder, Blackthorn, Dog rose, Guelder rose are native to Portugal and provide food or cover the Bullfinch uses.
Bullfinchs in other countries
Other garden birds in Portugal
Sources
Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.