Species · GBIF taxon 5231647
Lesser Goldfinch
Spinus psaltriaAlso known as Dark-backed Goldfinch, Arkansas Goldfinch, Green-backed Goldfinch
Lesser goldfinches are social, energetic songbirds that travel in noisy flocks, mixing with other finches to forage on seed-bearing plants. Males display striking yellow underparts with either a glossy black or olive-green back, while females are more uniformly dull olive-yellow. They are highly vocal, incorporating mimicry of other bird species into their sweet, rambling songs.
SocialVocalSeed-eater
- diet
- Seeds, buds, and occasionally small insects
- family
- Fringillidae
- threats
- Habitat loss, domestic cat predation, and window collisions
- life Span
- 4 to 7 years
LC
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
- Feeders: Offer nyjer or sunflower chips in tube feeders to attract them to your yard.
- Water: Provide a shallow birdbath, as they love to drink and bathe daily.
- Plants: Grow native sunflowers, asters, and thistles to provide natural foraging sites.