american goldfinch

**1. Bird Name**
English name: American Goldfinch
Scientific (Latin) name: Spinus tristis

**2. Appearance**
The American Goldfinch, also known as the Eastern Goldfinch or Wild Canary, is an eye-catching bird with a distinctive, vibrant plumage. Males flaunt a bright yellow body during the breeding season, with contrasting black wings marked by bold white stripes, and a striking black forehead. In winter, they molt to a more muted olive-brown color. Females and juveniles, on the other hand, are mostly brown, with a paler underside and less pronounced pattern on the wings. All American Goldfinches have sharp, pointed beaks suited to their diet, and they sport pale, nearly white lower eyelids, giving them an alert look.

**3. Size**
On average, American Goldfinches measure 11 to 14 cm in length, with a wingspan ranging from 19 to 22 cm. They are typically lightweight, with most individuals weighing between 11 and 20 grams.

**4. Habitat & Distribution**
American Goldfinches are native to North America and are primarily found across Canada, the United States, and northern Mexico. They inhabit a wide range of habitats and prefer open landscapes like meadows, fields, and gardens, though they can also be found gracing orchards, roadsides, and other disturbed habitats. Notably, they appear to have an affinity for sunflower plants.

**5. Interesting Facts**
Firstly, American Goldfinches are among the strictest vegetarians in the bird world, preferring an all-seed diet. The timing of their breeding season, unusually late in the summer, is thought to coincide with peak abundance of seeds. Secondly, the American Goldfinch has a unique flying pattern that resembles a rollercoaster, characterized by a series of rapid wing beats followed by a short glide, giving an up-and-down appearance. Lastly, the Goldfinch changes its vibrant plumage twice a year through a process called molting, making it one of the few species that molt in both spring and fall.

**6. Diet**
American Goldfinches primarily eat seeds, particularly those of composite plants like thistles, dandelions, sunflowers, and ragweed. They occasionally diversify their diet with tree buds, maple sap, and insects but these account for a small portion of their overall consumption.

**7. Behavior & Sounds**
As social birds, American Goldfinches often form loose flocks while feeding and migrating. Their flight call is an enthusiastic-sounding “po-ta-to-chip” or “per-chick-o-ree,” and their song is a long series of twitters and warbles. Goldfinches are also known for their acrobatic feeding habits, often feeding upside-down.

**8. Conservation Status**
American Goldfinches are of “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List due to their extensive range and stable population.

**9. Lifespan**
American Goldfinches typically live for about 3 to 6 years in the wild. Some individuals have been known to live up to 10 years in both wild and captive settings.

**10. Additional Notes**
In various communities, the American Goldfinch goes by other local names, including ‘Willow Goldfinch’ and ‘Gold Linnet.’ They are popular with humans due to their non-destructive feeding habits and attractive appearance, and often feature in backyard feeding set-ups. Ecologically, their seed dispersal habits play an important role in propagating wildflowers across landscapes. Additionally, their vibrant feather molt has intrigued scientists and birdwatchers alike, making Goldfinches a popular subject in avian studies.