Oriental Greenfinch

Perched on a branch like a bell.

Scientific name	Carduelis sinica
English name	Oriental Greenfinch
Japanese name	Kawarahiwa
Classification	Aves
Classification details	Passeriformes Fringillidae
Full length	15cm
Distribution	All over Japan, East Asia

Characteristics

A sparrow-sized wild bird with yellow flight feathers. The body is yellow-greenish brown. Females are darker and duller in color than males. It cries with a voice of "Kurukuru" and "Kirikiri". A flock of dozens of birds perches in grassy areas such as reeds and eats. It also has a thick and powerful mouth.

Ecology

As its name suggests, it mainly inhabits riverbeds, but can also be seen in parks and forests at low elevations. They live in flocks of several dozen birds and eat plant seeds. It has a certain territory during the breeding season. They also live near human habitation, and it is not uncommon for them to come down to the ground or stay in places with good visibility.

Habitat

I found a group along the Asakawa River in Hachioji City. If you're strolling along the Asakawa River and hear a chirping sound like that of a Japanese white-eye, you're likely to find a Japanese greenfinch. They are often found in reed bushes. There are times when about 20 birds form a bell on one tree.