Lesser Goldfinch

The Lesser Goldfinch is a small, vibrant songbird commonly found in open woodlands, gardens, and scrublands across the western and southern United States. Males are easily recognized by their bright yellow underparts and contrasting black or dark greenish backs, while females display more subdued olive tones. Known for their cheerful, rapid songs, these goldfinches often mimic other bird calls in their repertoire. Highly social, they are often seen in flocks and are drawn to water sources like birdbaths or dripping fountains. Their diet consists mainly of seeds, especially from sunflowers and thistles, making them important contributors to seed dispersal in their ecosystems.