The ROSE BULLFINCH, or ROSE FINCH (_Erythrothorax roseus_) is seven
inches long and ten and a half broad. Its forehead is of a dazzling
whiteness, and the rest of a brilliant carmine red; the wings are of the
same colour, with two lighter stripes running over them; the under part
of the body is also of a bright red. In the young male bird the plumage
is of a reddish brownish grey, with dark streaks, and upon the wings
there are two clear reddish yellow stripes. The female resembles that of
the linnet. Rose Bullfinches were often seen by Radde upon the Bareja
Mountains. During the month of September they lived in small parties of
from six to twelve birds, but in winter they only flew about in pairs,
and towards the spring disappeared entirely. Plantations of oaks or
black birch-trees are generally preferred by these birds to any other
localities, though they are fond of frequenting well-wooded valleys.
About noon they separate and repose lazily and carelessly upon the
branches; but during the forenoon, whilst seeking food, they are always
active and on their guard against danger.