The Goldfinch (Fringilla carduelis or Carduelis Elegans) is a common British bird of the Finch family. It is about 13cm long and the plumage is a mixture of black, scarlet (around the forehead and throat), yellow and white colours. During the 19th century it was a popular caged bird, being easily tamed and able to be taught tricks and manoeuvres. Its favourite food is thistle seeds (hence its French name, Chardonneret - a frequenter of thistles). Research Goldfinch