Finches are a family of birds sometimes known as the true finches. There are some 138 species in the family, most of whom have strong stubby beaks that make finches highly specialised seed-eaters. In most species the male has more colourful and distinctive plumage than the female. Finches are found all over the world in their favoured woodland, in mountains and deserts and of course in many a garden. Some species, such as the canary, have been bred as cage birds because of their lively nature, attractive plumage and interesting song.

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