American goldfinch on salsify


Finches of all sorts are characterized by having thick, strong beaks capable of shelling and removing the contents of just about any seed you'd care to mention.  This is no less true of the American goldfinch, and while not as robust as its larger cousins the grosbeaks, they enjoy a steady diet of seeds.

I came across a field of salsify (those large, dandelion-like flowers and seedheads) being accosted by a small flock of goldfinch.  They were flitting from one bulbous flower or seedhead (that are apparently called blowballs or clocks - that's a first for me) to another.  Of the lot, this one was closest to me and I took a series of photos; I liked this one the best.

It is interesting that they know exactly where to go to get food.  No seeds were visible on this young yet-to-flower bloom, but the bird tore into it with abandon.  In fact, it didn't mind my presence at all.  I am thankful for that as it is difficult to get a good photo of any organism uncomfortable with being watched, especially in close proximity to a human. 

American goldfinches are popular with birdwatchers because of the males' bright and contrasty colouring.  They readily take to bird feeders and will consume pretty well any kind of seed.  They favour small seeds called niger that are similar in size to dandelion seeds; you can buy specialized feeders for them that dispences the seeds with little waste.

I enjoyed watching them go about their business.  Birds are astonishing creatures with complex and often entertaining behaviours.  We need to provide more suitable habitat for them and take care of the natural areas that currently exist.  We will all be a lot better off.

Thanks for reading.

Eric Svendsen     www.ericspix.com

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