Species · GBIF taxon 8323485
Haemorhous mexicanus
haemorhous mexicanusAlso known as Hollywood Finch, Linnet, Red-fronted Finch
House finches are cheerful, highly social songbirds that have adapted spectacularly to human landscapes, often nesting in hanging flower pots, wreaths, and building ledges. Males display a vibrant, strawberry-red wash across their face and breast, a color derived directly from the carotenoid pigments in the seeds they eat. Their bubbly, warbling songs are a constant soundtrack in suburban neighborhoods throughout the year.
SongbirdAdaptableVocalist
- diet
- Strictly vegetarian, feeding on seeds, buds, and berries
- family
- Fringillidae
- threats
- House finch eye disease (conjunctivitis) and window collisions
- life Span
- Up to 11 years in the wild
LC
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
- Feeder Hygiene: Clean tube feeders regularly with a dilute bleach solution to prevent the spread of avian conjunctivitis.
- Water Source: Provide a shallow birdbath with fresh water to attract these frequent bathers to your yard.
- Nesting Shelters: Leave hanging baskets or porch wreaths undisturbed during spring, as these are favorite nesting sites.