American Goldfinch

Brief Description

A small, seed-eating songbird known for its acrobatic feeding and roller-coaster flight pattern. It is the state bird of Iowa, New Jersey, and Washington.

Additional Information

• Region of Origin: North America
• Typical Sighting Period: Year-round in most of the United States; breeds during mid-to-late summer
• Plumage Details: Highly seasonal; males are vibrant lemon yellow with a black forehead and black wings with white bars in summer. In winter, they molt to a dull olive-drab or brownish color. Females are duller yellow-brown year-round.
• Ecological Significance: Acts as a primary consumer of weed and thistle seeds, aiding in plant population control. It is also a food source for small predators like hawks.
• Conservation Status: Least Concern (Population is stable and widespread)
• Observation Tips: Look for them at bird feeders filled with sunflower hearts or nyjer (thistle) seed. They are often found in weedy fields, floodplains, and backyard gardens. Listen for their distinctive 'per-chick-o-ree' call during flight.