Pine Siskin

Pine Siskins are small, streaky finches that often travel in lively flocks during the colder months. They are highly attracted to feeders offering nyjer and small sunflower pieces, and can descend on backyard feeders in impressive numbers when food sources are scarce in the wild.

Pine Siskins are tiny, streaky finches that share the American Goldfinch's passion for nyjer seed. They're irruptive winter visitors — some years they flood southern Canada in enormous numbers, other years they're nearly absent. When they do arrive, they mob nyjer feeders in aggressive, chattering flocks. Sunflower chips and fine seed blends are strong secondary options.

Tube feeders and nyjer feeders are essential during siskin invasion years. They're small enough to use any perch size and will feed alongside goldfinches. Hang multiple nyjer feeders if you're seeing large flocks, and check seed levels daily — a hungry siskin flock can empty a feeder in hours. They also visit thistle socks and clinging-style feeders.

Siskins are conifer-dependent birds that breed in spruce, pine, and fir forests. If your property has mature conifers, you're already offering habitat. During irruption winters when they flood south, they'll use any yard with feeders, but they're most comfortable near coniferous cover. Planting native spruce or pine along a property border creates both shelter and natural seed sources. A heated birdbath during winter irruptions is a strong draw, as large siskin flocks need reliable water.