The goldfinch’s subtle western relative: the pine siskin

The goldfinch’s subtle western relative: the pine siskin
Courtesy Jennifer Even Melton

These tiny finches typically breed in the western United States and southern Canada, but some years they organize irregular migrations further south and can be seen in Kentucky. Close relatives of goldfinches, pine siskins are also primarily vegetarian and attracted to Nyger seeds. Not as showy as goldfinches, they are easily overlooked, as both males and females resemble streaky sparrows or female house finches. A close-up encounter, however, reveals subtle yellow edging on wings and tails, which become more noticeable when the bird takes flight.

Sign up for The Edge, our free email newsletter.

Get the latest stories right in your inbox.

Join for free