Linnets are widespread and common throughout much of Europe, often breeding in small colonies of up to 20 individuals. Nests are built in dense hedges or thorny trees, and the female lays 4-6 purple speckled eggs. Males help to feed the nestlings. Linnets are more dependent on wildflower seeds than other seed-eaters during the breeding season, since chicks are fed exclusively on seeds rather than insects. Linnets are partial to over 46 types of seeds, many of which are from the cabbage family.

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