linnet

linnetLinnet (Carduelis cannabina).

linnet, (Carduelis, sometimes Acanthis, cannabina), seed-eating European finch of the family Fringillidae (order Passeriformes). It is 13 cm (5 inches) long and brown streaked, with a white-edged forked tail; the crown and breast of the male are red. It is a hedgerow singer, and flocks forage for seeds in open country.

The house finch (see rosefinch) of the United States is often called linnet.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Richard Pallardy.