bird · GBIF taxon 5231640
American Goldfinch
Spinus tristisAlso known as Eastern Goldfinch, Wild Canary, Yellowbird
American goldfinches are lively, social songbirds famous for their bright yellow breeding plumage and bouncy, undulating flight pattern. They are strict vegetarians, timing their nesting season to late summer when thistle, sunflower, and wild aster seeds are most abundant. During winter, their brilliant yellow fades to a subtle olive-brown, and they gather in large, active flocks to forage across open fields and backyard feeders.
SongbirdSocialMigratory
- diet
- Seeds, primarily thistle, sunflower, aster, and birch seeds
- family
- Fringillidae
- threats
- Habitat loss, window collisions, domestic cat predation, and pesticide use
- life Span
- 3 to 6 years in the wild
LC
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
- Feeder Selection: Offer nyjer (thistle) or hulled sunflower seeds in tube or mesh feeders.
- Garden Planting: Grow native composite flowers like coneflowers, asters, and sunflowers to provide natural forage.
- Water Sources: Provide a clean birdbath, as they drink and bathe daily, especially during hot summer months.