bird 13

american goldfinch
spinus tristis


i was happy to have rounded out my dozen birds last week with a titmouse.  today it became a baker's dozen.  

a couple of weeks ago i noticed a goldfinch in the lilacs.  i was surprised, as i thought they headed south for the winter.  i read up on it (of course) and goldfinch will stick around in maine if the winter is not too cold nor too snowy.  hmmmmm…  seeing that perhaps this goldfinch missed the weather report, i dug out our summer thistle feeder and hung it in the lilac.  today a pair arrived.  

my family makes fun of me for my bird speak.  i play it up whenever i can. "ah yes, this is an american goldfinch in non-breeding winter plumage, sex determination awaiting confirmation of flight feather coloration.  i'll keep you posted guys."  summer male goldfinches are so bright and recognizable.  i am enjoying the challenge of sorting them out in winter.

to you, friend goldfinch (and your shy feeder mate), i am grateful for the opportunity to follow you through the seasons.  if i can sort out your flight feathers soon, i will know him from her shortly.  if not, i will wait for your spring molt and smile as blotches of yellow appear.  thanks for braving this winter.  i'll keep the feeder filled and look forward to your company.

note:  the american goldfinch is a cousin of bird 9, a common redpoll.  i see a bit of a family resemblance.