This bird is clinging on in Glamorgan in very small numbers - probably only a few pairs breed along the Caerphilly Ridge, mainly around Castell Coch.

There may be small breeding populations elsewhere in South Wales yet to be discovered but although it's such a stunning bird, it is remarkably shy and difficult to find.

The good news for the small population around the Caerphilly Ridge is that a long term project has been launched, aiming to ensure its conservation by increasing its numbers and distribution.

Volunteers have been surveying this large area, which includes the ridge the woodland corridors into Cardiff and sites on Garth Hill.

Geri Thomas of GBC says: "The Hawfinch is a seed eater and its large, powerful beak enables it to specialise in eating those seeds which other birds find too difficult to crack open."

"It is particularly partial to the seeds of Hornbeam, Cherry and Beech trees," he added.

"We providing supplementary feeding in public areas where we know the Hawfinch visit - namely the car parks at Fforest Fawr and Castell Coch".

The purchase of this seed has been funded by the partnership programme between Cardiff County Council and the Countryside Council for Wales.

Other partners in this project include Caerphilly County Borough Council, Caerphilly and Ruperra Woodland Trusts and the Forestry Commission.

"Once we've managed to establish the size of the Hawfinch population in this area, parts of these woods can be managed for their benefit by the Forestry Commission", says Geri.

"We also intend to provide interpretation and educational material for the public at the two feeding sites".

If you have been lucky enough to see a Hawfinch in Glamorgan please contact Geri Thomas on 01443 836949 or email geri.thomas@glamorganbirds.org.uk

Photo of hawfinch by John Robinson