Finches

Yellow bird with black and white markings on a white background

American Goldfinch

Spinus tristis

Waits until July to nest. Sees no reason to rush.

Small bird with a red patch on its head against a white background

Common Redpoll

Acanthis flammea

Arrives from the Arctic in winter and finds ours mild.

Bird with red head and brown body on a white background

House Finch

Haemorhous mexicanus

The males' red comes from their food. Brighter is better, ask the females.

Red bird with black and white markings on a white background

Pine Grosbeak

Pinicola enucleator

A big, unhurried finch that lets you walk surprisingly close.

Bird with yellow and black plumage on a white background

Pine Siskin

Spinus pinus

Travels in restless flocks that empty a nyjer feeder by noon.

Red and brown bird on a white background

Purple Finch

Haemorhous purpureus

Not purple. Closer to a sparrow dipped in raspberry juice.

Red and brown bird on a white background

Red Crossbill

Loxia curvirostra

Its crossed bill opens conifer cones nothing else can.

← All backyard birds