what is a gimpel?

Gimpel is the German name for the finch Pyrrhula pyrrhula, commonly called Dompfaff. Both males and females have a black head, beak, wings and tail; a grey back and a white rump. The male has a rose-red lower surface, however, the female is inconspicuously brown.

The Gimpel lives in the forests of Europe and builds its nest in a tree or bush. It eats the seeds of fleshy fruits and herbs, buds, and shoots and will leave the forest only when it cannot find food. Although its singing is generally monotone, in captivity, the Gimpel has a masterful ability to learn and imitate human music.

The male ( m ) has a light red lower surface, a white Buerzel and a black head. The female ( f ) is dressed inconspicuous with its brown, grey and black plumage.