Distribution of the species
Common resident in Paggaio. The local breeding population is smaller than the 2% of the national population (estimated at 250,000–680,000 pairs). The conservation status of the local population, which is not isolated within its wider distribution range, is considered from good to excellent. In the study area, the species is mainly found in the agroforestry areas of lower altitudes, showing a particular preference for fallow and grassland areas, as well as in the open areas of the alpine zone, where the species is abundant.
Description of the species (biological and ecological features)
Thin and small finch, with relatively long tail and short tapered gray beak. Brown upperparts, red forehead and breast, gray neck. Females without red colors. Anxious and active, it bursts abruptly and sits down again quickly. Its scientific name is a direct reference to its favorite food, flax (Linum usitatissimum) and hemp seeds (Cannabis spp.). Its song is pleasant, with short, well separated phrases.
Resident in the area. It breeds in open mountainous areas, but also at low altitudes, with dense bushes, open maquis, phrygana, heather. It likes open landscapes with thorny shrubs or cedars. It builds its nest in a bush. Outside of the breeding season, it is found in large flocks, often with other finches, usually on shores and salt marshes. It feeds on the ground or low in bushes. It consumes small and medium-sized seeds, while it will rarely eat invertebrates.
The main threat for the species is the expansion and intensification of agriculture, which in combination with the abandonment of traditional agricultural practices and land uses result in the degradation of its habitats. Afforestation also limits its suitable habitats. Herbicides used in intensive agriculture and the abandonment of set-aside practices contribute to reducing food availability. Illegal cage trapping could reduce its population locally.
Conservation status
Least Concern.
Conservation state
Protected under the Bern Convention (Appendix II). Listed as Least Concern in Greece and in Europe, by the Greek Red Data Book and the IUCN correspondingly. Also assigned to SPEC2 category (European species of conservation concern) by BirdLife International.