The American Goldfinch is a small finch about
5 inches. It's thick conical bill
is good for eating seeds. In summer the male is bright
yellow, with black wings, tail and forehead patch. The female
is a duller olive-yellow with black wings.
(Classification: Carduelis
tristis)
In the winter they both look more like the
female but a little duller. Its flight is undulating, often
with a chirp with each dip.
Song of American Goldfinch
Their song is a series of random sounds,
clear and light.
Some say it sounds like pot-tato-chip.
Note on some browsers you will not be able to see or
use the drop down sound list. If you can't use it
try the sound link below.
Their natural habitat is woodland
edges, thickets and weedy patches. They can be seen in open
woods, on lawns and on roadsides. They forage in large
flocks. It is fun to watch flocks fly with their roller
coaster manner. They range from South Canada though the
U.S. to North Mexico
Breeding and Nesting
Breeding season begins in April or may in the
southwest to mid June in the east. Goldfinches like to breed
in areas with openings among trees and shrubs.
The female usually builds the nest in high
weeds, or in a tree or shrub. Often near water. The nest is
firm and compact made of strips of bark, catkins, plant down,
cotton and wood. Lined with plant down. The female will
incubate 4 to 6 eggs. The eggs are smooth and pale blue or
greenish-blue, slightly glossy. Young birds are tended by
both parents, and will leave the nest 10 to 17 days.
Feeders and Food
Feeders with thistle and other seeds will
attract them. Make sure you also provide water.
