Finches
Get to Know Backyard Finches
Finches are some of the most beloved backyard birds in the United States. Known for their bright colors, cheerful personalities and lively songs, these small birds bring constant activity and charm to feeders.
While many people recognize them right away, each finch species has unique behaviors and traits that make them especially interesting to watch.
American Goldfinches
American Goldfinches are famous for their vibrant yellow summer plumage, but they have a surprising seasonal transformation. Males molt twice each year, trading their bright yellow feathers for a more muted brown coloring during winter.
These tiny birds are also impressive builders. Their nests are so tightly woven that they can actually hold water like a small cup.
Goldfinches are highly vocal and easy to identify by their cheerful calls that sound like “per-chick-o-ree.” When flying, they often sing a playful “see-me, see-me,” along with a sweet, trilling song.
House Finches
House Finches are one of the most widespread finch species in the country, and their success is partially thanks to human involvement. They were once sold as caged birds known as “Hollywood Finches,” and after being released, they quickly spread across the United States.
These adaptable birds thrive in both urban and suburban environments. House Finches have a simple chirping call, while their song features a repeated warbling sound that often ends with a slightly raspy “chee-ur.”
They have even been known to visit sugar water feeders from time to time.
Purple Finches
Often considered the quieter relatives of the House Finch, Purple Finches prefer woodland habitats and more natural settings. They frequently travel in nomadic flocks, sometimes appearing in backyards in large numbers before suddenly moving on.
Purple Finches communicate with a sharp metallic “tick” call and a musical “chur-lee” while in flight. Their song resembles the House Finch but is smoother and lacks the harsh ending notes.
Whether visiting feeders or singing from nearby trees, finches add color, music, and life to any backyard birding experience.