HAWFINCH, Coccothraustes coccothraustes, one of the largest of the finch family (Fringillidae), found over nearly the whole of Europe and north Asia and in Africa north of the Atlas. It breeds in nearly all the English counties to Yorkshire. In coloration it bears some resemblance to a chaffinch, but its much larger size and enormous beak make it easily recognizable, while the singular bill-hook form of some of its wing-feathers will be found remarkable. Though frequenting gardens and orchards as well as woods, it is exceedingly shy. It has an unfortunate pre dilection for green peas. In winter it may gather in flocks. It is unusual in that courtship begins while the birds are still in flocks, the mated pairs then separating to find individual territories.