GOLDFINCH, Carduelis carduelis, a well-known and beau tiful bird found over the greater part of Europe and north Africa, and eastwards to Persia and Turkistan. It is a favourite cage bird. As a songster it is surpassed by other species, but its docility and attachment to its master or mistress make up for any defect in its vocal powers. In some parts of England the trade in gold finches is very considerable. The goldfinch decreased markedly in Britain during the later part of the 19th century, but is now becoming more common. Though goldfinches may be observed in the coldest weather, most leave Britain in autumn, returning in spring, and resorting to gardens and orchards to breed. The nest is beautifully neat, generally well hidden by the leafy bough on which it is built. When the broods leave the nest they frequent pastures, commons, heaths and downs in flocks. The goldfinch is very fond of the seeds of thistles and other weeds. It has been introduced into New Zealand, where it has firmly established itself (see Thomson, Naturalisation of Animals and Plants in New Zealand). Eastward of the range of the present species its place is taken by C. caniceps, wanting the black hood and white ear-coverts of the British bird. Its home seems to be in Central Asia, but it moves southward in winter, being common at that season in Cashmere. In America the term "goldfinch" is applied to Astragalinus tristis, a yellow bird with black wings, tail and crown. This bird has a wild yet canary-like love song. (See