Once some snow finally arrived in our area, the number of finches visiting my feeders increased. I have a flock of almost a dozen Pine Siskins now, and many more House Finches. I’ve also counted at least 40 goldfinches at a time in our backyard.
The other day my neighbor and I were outside refilling our bird feeders at the same time. She commented on how challenging it is to identify Pine Siskins, and I agreed. If you’re not looking closely you may assume you’re seeing female House Finches or goldfinches in their drab winter “outfits”.
It’s that little flash of yellow on their wings that can help you ID a Pine Siskin. They also have thin, pointy beaks. House Finches have thicker beaks.
This is a Pine Siskin:
Below is a female House Finch. Notice the thicker, slightly curved beak. House Finches are also just a wee bit bigger than Pine Siskins.
The leucistic goldfinch is still a regular visitor at my feeders too. Here he is with other American Goldfinches (top perches) and a Pine Siskin (middle right perch).
This adorable little lemon-yellow-and-white bird is the highlight of the winter birdfeeding season for me so far!
