Your wildlife photography guide.

Explore the chaffinch in detail, study its behavior, prepare your shots.

Where to observe and photograph the chaffinch in the wild

Learn where and when to spot the chaffinch in the wild, how to identify the species based on distinctive features, and what natural environments it inhabits. The WildlifePhotographer app offers tailored photography tips that reflect the chaffinch’s behavior, helping you capture better wildlife images. Explore the full species profile for key information including description, habitat, active periods, and approach techniques.

Chaffinch

Scientific name: Fringilla coelebs


Chaffinch

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: FRINGILLIDAE

Group: Birds

Sensitivity to human approach: Suspicious

Minimum approach distance: 10 m

Courtship display: March to June

Incubation: 10-14 jours

Hatchings: April to July


Habitat:
Forests, gardens, parks

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The chaffinch is a small songbird found primarily in Europe and Western Asia. It is easily recognizable by its colorful plumage, with a brown back, pink breast, and beige belly. This passerine bird feeds on seeds, berries, and insects, and is commonly seen in forests, gardens, and parks. The chaffinch is also known for its melodious song, which varies depending on the region and season.

Recommended lens:
300 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
Photograph the chaffinch using a telephoto lens to capture the details of its colorful plumage and flight behavior. It is best to photograph early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is soft and the bird is more active. Be discreet and patient, as this small bird is quick and difficult to capture due to its small size.

From knowledge to field practice

A species profile helps you understand an animal. In the field, the challenge is often different. Remembering your own observations.

The WildlifePhotographer app allows you to:

• record your personal observations
• note locations, dates, and behaviors
• revisit your field references over time
• build a private and long-term field logbook

The app does not provide observation locations.
It helps you organize what you actually observe, with respect for wildlife.

👉 Start my personal field logbook