It's autumn, and flocks of birds are busy preparing for winter. Goldfinches are among those birds that do overwinter in the UK, but like many natives a good number also take a winter break in Spain. They're highly social birds and I came across a small flock this morning. The juveniles are still in their youthful plumage, which lacks the vivid red face of the adult.
Juvenile goldfinch
They were flitting between trees.
But mainly they were socialising at the local watering hole… in this instance a trough for the local sheep.
There's always one though who doesn't join in :whistle:
Camera note: all shots taken with the Canon 40D and EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L USM IS lens.
Dudley
27 Sep 2010:up:
Micky
27 Sep 2010<3 the colors! Thanks for sharing.
gdare
27 Sep 2010So many of them :eyes:
The last one is great :up:
filipinaballerina
28 Sep 2010some of them are still looking very brightly coloured for this time of year!
Words
28 Sep 2010Andy, thanks!
Words
28 Sep 2010Erwin, they were a joy to watch. 🙂
Words
28 Sep 2010Groovy, thanks!
Words
28 Sep 2010Chris, the early light was great, but yes still very vibrant.
Words
28 Sep 2010Darko, that's what I love about them. Always a crowd 🙂
SittingFox
1 Oct 2010They're so pretty. They always seem very "alive", too 🙂 Nice shots!
Words
2 Oct 2010Adele, thanks! They seem to be doing very well this year.
Ukwildlife
3 Oct 2010lovley pics – there are plenty of goldies about round here too
Words
3 Oct 2010Neil, pretty little things. A good year for them.
Wulpen
19 Oct 2012Beautiful there are, lovely shots :up: