The bird is mostly found in deciduous or mixed forest, but they are also found in parks, gardens, and suburban settings. It is very rare quest in Plungė park. 

Feeds heavily on seeds, but will also take fresh buds, small fruits and berries, and insects and other small invertebrates.  Insects are mostly consumed during the summer breeding season.

The nest of a Hawfinch is a poorly constructed saucer built of sticks, moss, and lichen, lined with animal hair, fine grasses, and rootlets.  The female lays between 3 and 7 eggs, and she alone incubates them. Once the eggs hatch, both parents help to raise the young.

Some populations are non-migratory, while some migrate for the winter. Birds found in Europe are mostly permanent residents, while many Asian populations are migratory.