How Do You Identify North American Finches?
Finches in North America are classified in three main groups: Goldfinches, Red Finches and Winter Finches. Their song varies, from a harsh rising rattling sound to thin clear notes. Finches are small birds, from 4 to 6 inches in length, with strong stubby beaks. Red Finches include the House Finch, which is probably the most familiar bird for city dwellers. Most feed on seeds and other plant matter. Here’s how to spot one. Notice the bird’s color. Male Goldfinches are bright yellow, but the females are much duller. Winter Finches can be brown or brick red. The female House Finch has a pale brown face with paler underparts, and the male has a red eyebrow and forehead. Notice birds that come to bird feeders in the cities. The House Finch, the Purple Finch, the Pine Siskin and the Redpoll are frequent visitors. Observe where the birds live. Winter Finches live in the north, usually around forest edges. House Finches inhabit backyards in cities and open woods. Goldfinches live in woodlands
