Why Algeria’s "Maknin" is more than just a bird: Conservationists fight to save endangered Goldfinch - Video
The goldfinch, known for its striking plumage and melodic song, has long captured the admiration of Algerians, where it is affectionately referred to as "maknin."
However, the widespread practice of capturing and trading the bird has conservationists sounding the alarm about the species' survival in the wild.
"The moment these wild birds are caged, they often suffer from serious health problems, such as intestinal swelling, due to abrupt changes in their diet and environment," explained Zinelabidine Chibout, a volunteer with the Wild Songbird Protection Association in Setif, located 290 kilometres (180 miles) east of Algiers.
Goldfinches, native to Western Europe and North Africa, have deep cultural significance in Algeria. They are seen as symbols of freedom and were celebrated during the country’s independence movement. Algeria even designates an annual day in March to honour the bird.
Despite laws introduced in 2012 that classify the goldfinch as a protected species and ban its capture and sale, enforcement remains weak. Markets and pet shops continue to sell the birds openly, with little oversight, as reported by the AFP.
A study conducted in 2021 by Guelma University estimated that over six million goldfinches are currently kept in captivity in Algeria. Researchers documented hundreds of birds being sold in a single day, with around 300 observed for sale at one market in Annaba, eastern Algeria.
To address the issue, Chibout's association rescues injured and neglected goldfinches, nursing them back to health before releasing them into the wild. "We treat them in large cages, and once they recover and can fly again, we release them back into the wild," he said.
Some conservationists advocate for breeding programmes to meet demand without harming wild populations.
"Our goal is to encourage the breeding of goldfinches already in captivity, so people no longer feel the need to capture them from the wild," said Madjid Ben Daoud, a goldfinch enthusiast and member of an environmental group in Algiers.
Souhila Larkam, who raises goldfinches at home, supports this approach but stresses responsible care. "People should only keep a goldfinch if they ensure its reproduction," she said.
