Lesser Goldfinch

Carduelis psaltria

A lively party of bright yellow, green and black goldfinches swarm the chaparral shrubs, calling to each other with shrill, raspy notes. Unlike the sparrows hunting for fallen seeds in leaf litter, Lesser Goldfinches pluck their food fresh off the plant. Their favorite seeds are from plants in the sunflower family. Even during the warmer months, when other seed-eating birds are gathering insects for their chicks, Lesser Goldfinches are still plucking seeds.

Fun Fact:
You may recognize this common visitor to backyard feeders by its sweet, musical song.

What’s for Lunch:
Seeds and buds

Where’s Home:
Trees and shrubs near the lagoon, year-round