The American Goldfinch

(Carduelis tristis)

Goldfinches are beautiful singers. The male's yellow feathers are so bright that they make me smile. Such a cheery bird. Where have you seen goldfinches? Do they make you smile?

America is lucky to have a large population of Goldfinches. Goldfinches are 4.5 inches long and have a wingspan of approximately 8 inches. Seeds and thistles are their foods of choice. As you see above, the bird stands on a plant and goes in different directions to reach its meal.  Not only do they eat thistles, they also use them when making their nest. What's funny is that they do eat insects but that is only by mistake. How did you get your name? The American Goldfinch got its name because they eat thistles. It's that simple.

Did you know that they can live up to 20 years? They live in many areas including anywhere sunflowers and thistles live, forests, fields, and by the road. As you drive, you see thistles growing by the side of the road.Goldfinches are probably close by.

I have never called Goldfinches wild canaries, but some do. They have other nicknames, such as King Harry.

Life is sweetened by their presence. They bring us joy when they sing or just when we see them on a tree, bush or hopping on the ground. After a long winter, it is truly a blessing to see theses feathered friends. One thing I just learned is that they shed all of their feathers and regrow them twice a year. 

Here you see a Goldfinch right after it flew off a branch. When you watch birds, you will see many of its habits. It's in this way that you learn more about the bird so that, when you have a camera with you, you know what it's going to do. This is the same with life outside your window. For example, have you watched a bee? Take in how it flies and where it goes and, in that way, you will know more about them.

The next time you take a walk, keep your eyes and ears open for the American Goldfinch. Seeing them will brighten your day. Hearing them with make you sing.

Thank you for visiting!

Best,

Judy

References:

http://www.birdhouses101.com/american-goldfinch-facts.asp

https://birdeden.com/interesting-facts-about-american-goldfinch

https://billingsgazette.com/lifestyles/home-and-garden/fun-facts-about-goldfinches/article_65165159-1e5d-5a6c-8c04-cc1dfa9e6fde.html

 https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/animals/american-goldfinch/#american-goldfinch.jpg

https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Goldfinch/lifehistory

http://www.softschools.com/facts/animals/finch_facts/1223/

Kaufman, K. (1996). Lives of North American Birds.

Wells, D. (2002). “100 Birds and How They Got Their Names.”

Dunn, J.L., & Alderfer, J. (2011). National Geographic: Field Guide to the Birds of North America.