Corcrán Coille - Bullfinch

Spotted this on a holiday in Wexford and found out that it was my Uncle's favourite bird! The boys loved seeing it too, but were a bit more distracted with the swallows!

Wide spread from Ireland to Japan the Bullfinch has got its name for its short and stocky "bullish" features. In Irish "Corcrán Coille" translashes as "Purple bird of the woods/Little Scarlet one of the woods". The scientific name from Latin is Pyrrhula pyrrhula, which comes from the Greek adjective "purrhos" meaning "flame/red coloured".🔥♨️

While the Cocrán Coille is a protected species in Ireland, it was/is allowed to be hunted in England for agricultural reasons as it was/is seen as a pest - particularly in Orchards. This is due to the fact that its diet is seeds, grain and buds of fruit trees. 🌳🍎

This bird is a symbol of tranquility, but also of importance and power. It can arrive to remind you to leave negativity behind while leaving contentment in its wake. A symbol to help you get over your hump. Finch’s motto is “Savor the moment. Don’t downplay it.” The creature arrives with the message that sometimes it’s acceptable to toot your own horn or be proud of your achievements.🤗

It has one of the prettiest songs and has been known to be kept as a pet. Unlike other songbirds, bullfinches actually “talk” to each other. And also mate for life, which is no doubt the foundation of the belief in the Far East, where Finch represents longevity, fidelity, and good fortune.🥰🪙