Widespread in many types of woodland and forest, as well as parks, gardens, and hedged farmland with scattered trees. In winter it gathers into flocks and frequently visits garden feeders. The male is especially eye-catching, showing a bluish head, pink face and breast, and a bold black-and-white wing pattern, though these colours are softer in winter. The female is much plainer but keeps the same overall pattern, particularly the intricate wing markings. Both sexes show white outer tail feathers, which can be very noticeable in flight, especially when the bird is startled into the air.