Goldfinch

Carduelis carduelis

"Fair Choice" Pet Fair Choice

Goldfinches are small songbirds that naturally occur in Europe, North Africa, and western and central Asia. They are found in open, wooded lowlands and usually nest in tall trees. Goldfinches prefer to eat small seeds such as those from thistles (their Latin name is from carduus, thistle) but they also prey on insects. In winter they form flocks and frequently visit bird feeders.

Goldfinches (usually called European Goldfinches to distinguish them from North American goldfinch species) are commonly kept and bred in captivity because of their colorful plumage and pleasing song. Males and females are similar in appearance and generally live about 10 years in captivity.

Did You Know?

Male and female Goldfinches are similar in appearance and generally live about 10 years in captivity.

Source Sustainability Fair Choice

Does the harvest for wildlife trade or captive breeding of this species harm wild populations?

Some Cause for Concern

Goldfinches sold for the pet trade are either wild-caught or raised in captive-breeding facilities. Wild Goldfinch populations appear to be stable throughout their range. However, there is evidence that wild individuals are caught illegally in significant numbers in many parts of Europe and are for sale on the black market. In addition, wild-caught birds are sometimes marketed as “captive bred” to unsuspecting buyers. If this illegal harvest continues, wild Goldfinch populations might one day be at risk.

PetWatch Recommendation:

Only purchase a pet Goldfinch from a reputable breeder or distributor to ensure that you are not buying an illegally wild-caught and/or imported animal. Additionally, ask for proof that your animal was captive-bred; PetWatch strongly recommends only purchasing captive-bred birds to ensure that wild populations can continue to thrive.

Invasion Threat Worst Choice

Does the release or escape of this species into the wild harm the environment and/or economy?

Significant Cause for Concern

Pet Goldfinches that were released or escaped into the wild have established self-sustaining populations in many locations worldwide, including in mainland Australia, New Zealand, and Argentina. These introduced populations have not been well studied, but they have the potential to negatively impact native species through competition for nests or food.

PetWatch Recommendation:

Make sure that your Goldfinch is always kept inside an enclosure and does not have the opportunity to escape. Never release a pet into the wild.

Animal Welfare Fair Choice

Does harvest, captive breeding, transport, or being kept as a pet harm individual animals?

Some Cause for Concern

There is no evidence that Goldfinches are mistreated in the legal pet trade. However, Goldfinches captured illegally are at greater risk because there is no oversight or accountability in the black market.

PetWatch Recommendation:

When purchasing a pet Goldfinch ask for proof that the animal was bred in captivity by a professional with a permit to sell the animal. Given the lack of oversight, animals in the illegal wildlife trade may be mistreated.

Health Threat Fair Choice

Does this animal pose a health risk to native wildlife, humans, livestock and agriculture?

Some Cause for Concern

Some Goldfinches in North America have been infected with West Nile Virus, an infectious disease that can be harmful to humans, livestock (e.g., horses and poultry), and native birds. Goldfinches may also carry other infectious diseases, such as fowl typhoid, that threaten native and domesticated birds. Additionally, wild caught Goldfinches can be infected with an intracellular parasite (C. psittaci) that can be passed to humans.

PetWatch Recommendation:

When purchasing a pet Goldfinch, ask for proof of a clean bill of health. Ask the seller if the animal has been checked by a certified veterinarian and for a list of any medical treatments the animal has received.

EcoHealth Alliance works at the intersection of ecosystem, animal and human health through local conservation programs and develops global health solutions to emerging diseases.
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