The American Goldfinch is a small, vibrant songbird known for its striking yellow plumage and cheerful song. Adult males are particularly eye-catching during the breeding season, with bright yellow bodies, black wings with white markings, and a distinctive black cap on their heads. Females and non-breeding males are more subdued, sporting olive-brown feathers with hints of yellow and black wings.
It is a typical North American seed-eating member of the finch family. It breeds across southern Canada from British Columbia to Newfoundland and through most of the United States north of the Gulf and core Southwestern States.
This bird prefers trees in open places, especially in orchards and along roadsides. As winter approaches, the goldfinch moves short distances towards the south. Its winter range includes southern British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and most of the United States.
They are agile and acrobatic, often seen flitting among weeds and wildflowers, where they feed primarily on seeds. Their favorite foods include thistle and sunflower seeds, and they have a specialized beak that allows them to extract seeds with ease. American Goldfinches are also known for their distinctive undulating flight pattern.
It is the state bird of Iowa, New Jersey, and Washington.
Summer is the perfect time to grab your binoculars and hit the trail—or even just step outside into your backyard! Whether you're new to birdwatching or a seasoned birder, summer offers a chance to see some amazing birds in action. From colorful songbirds to sleek waterbirds, here’s a... Read more »
Feeding birds in the summer can be just as rewarding as in winter, but the warmer weather brings different challenges. Birds still appreciate easy access to food, especially during breeding season when they’re raising hungry chicks. However, it’s important to follow some summer-specific tips to keep... Read more »
This adorable t-shirt design features four of our Birdorable birds that are common in back yards across the United States and Canada. The birds that are perched together in this original cartoon design are: American Goldfinch, Read more »
This week, we're excited to spotlight a t-shirt that's sure to bring a touch of Birdorable charm to your holiday festivities! Featuring three of our beloved songbirds—the Black-capped Chickadee, American Goldfinch (sporting its non-breeding plumage), and the slate-colored Dark-eyed Junco — this design is a... Read more »
