Dear Goldfinch Lovers,
This morning, I poured my coffee. Then, I made a beeline for my desk. It wasn’t because I was itching to dive into work. I wanted to indulge in my bird-watching obsession. As I’ve mentioned in earlier ramblings, my desk is in the prime viewing spot. It overlooks the bird feeders hanging on my patio. And what did I see? Brown Goldfinches. Yeah, that’s right.
I thought I was a knowledgeable birdwatcher for most of my adult life. Yet, when I discovered that goldfinches don’t migrate in winter, I was shocked. I honestly believed they were sparrows with just a bit of yellow on them.
Now that I’m retired, I have much more time to study the beautiful birds of nature. There’s so much more for me to learn.
As it turns out, goldfinches exchange their bright body feathers for duller ones as they prepare for winter. The new feathers gradually, creating a distinctive patchwork look on the birds.
Unlike most songbirds, goldfinches molt twice a year. At the end of winter, they grow a full set of new golden-yellow feathers. For a few days, each one will have a strange, patchy appearance. Soon, they’ll be vividly beautiful once more.
“So, for you beginners, no, it’s not a flurry of sparrows crowding your feeders; it’s the beautiful Goldfinch.” “When Goldfinches Aren’t Gold.” It holds fascinating facts you need to know. As for the rest of you, I humbly admit that there’s always new stuff to learn.
Until next time, enjoy nature in your world, even if it’s only from your window.
Sources:
The goldfinches at my feeder are starting to look dull and patchy. What’s happening to them?
Updated Winter Finch Forecast for 2024-25
On the Wing Photography by Mia McPherson
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