American goldfinches are found in prairies, weedy fields, city parks, and backyards throughout Missouri. For more on these brilliantly-colored birds, flit over to mdc.mo.gov/field-guide.
American Goldfinch
Late Nesters
Goldfinches nest later than most birds. They wait until July and August, when thistles and milkweeds make seeds.
Comfy Nest
Females collect the fluffy fibers from thistles and milkweeds to weave into a cup-shaped nest held together by spider silk.
Strict Vegetarians
Most birds feed their babies bugs. But not goldfinches. They eat seeds and vomit them into the mouths of their chicks. Yum!
Bouncy and Blabby
Goldfinches fly in a bouncy, up-and-down motion and usually call while in flight: sue-weeeet!
Agile and Acrobatic
Weighing just a bit more than two U.S. quarters, a goldfinch often balances on sunflowers, thistles, and dandelions to pluck out seeds.
Also In This Issue
Join us for a tour of Missouri’s littlest lizards.
And More...
This Issue's Staff
Photographer – Noppadol Paothong
Photographer – David Stonner
Designer – Marci Porter
Art Director – Ben Nickelson
Editor – Matt Seek
Subscriptions – Marcia Hale
Magazine Manager – Stephanie Thurber