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
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Thistle seeds
- Sunflower seeds
- Wild aster seeds
Predators
- Domestic cat
- Cooper's hawk
- American kestrel
ThreatsHabitat loss, domestic cat predation, and window collisions
HabitatsOpen woodlands, scrublands, gardens, parks, and agricultural edges
Life span4 to 7 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyFringillidae
- SpeciesSpinus psaltria
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- 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.
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Backyard Birds
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