General: American Goldfinches are a migratory bird species that range from parts of Canada to North Carolina in the summer, to as far south as Mexico in the winter. Goldfinches are famous for the male’s vibrant yellow color in the summertime. At other times, males are a dull olive color, but after their spring molt, they turn as bright as a lemon. This strikes a beautiful contrast with their black and white wings and the black feathers right above their beaks.

Diet: Goldfinches are seed eaters. They also eat sap, berries and tree buds. Goldfinches naturally feed from branches, and enjoy artificial feeders that give their feet a good grip. They will flock to wild bird feeders that have their preferred seeds. Goldfinches particularly enjoy the Nyjer seed (also called thistle seed) you can find in our Gold Nyjer Thistle Seed, Ultimate Variety and Dutch’s Deluxe. Use a feeder that lets the goldfinch perch and hang. Our Thistle Tube Feeder is an ideal choice.

Environment: Goldfinches prefer open and lightly wooded areas such as meadows, roadside green space and orchards. A typical American lawn resembles their favourite environment, and in fact, goldfinches have thrived in the face of urban development.

Behavior: Goldfinches are a socially gregarious, tolerant species. They’ll gather in large flocks around a prime feeding area without too much trouble. Goldfinches flock with other finch species. During breeding season, goldfinches form colonies to breed and nest. However, while they’ll nest near each other, each mating pair will not tolerate any finch who dares to visit the nest.

Goldfinches are wary of predatory bird species. They specialize in fleeing, not fighting, so flocks use alarm calls to war of approaching threats. They even have a special call that tells the flock to quiet down when it’s time to hide from a predator. Goldfinches also sing to call their mates during breeding seasons.

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