Delve into our exploration of the finches of Michigan. Discover native species, their habitats, behaviors and tips for birdwatching enthusiasts eager to observe these charming birds in their natural environments across the state.
Michigan, with its diverse landscapes, is home to a variety of finch species. These small, lively birds add color and song to our gardens, forests and fields. Let’s take a closer look at the finches you might spot in the Great Lakes State!
Common Finch Species in Michigan
1. American Goldfinch
Here’s the information about the American Goldfinch (Spinus tristis) in an easy-to-understand chart format:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | American Goldfinch |
| Scientific Name | Spinus tristis |
| Habitat | Open fields, meadows, gardens and edges of woodlands |
| Range | North America, from southern Canada to northern Mexico |
| Diet | Seeds (especially from plants like thistles and sunflowers), insects during breeding season |
| Identification | Males: Bright yellow with black wings and cap during breeding season; Females: Duller yellow-brown year-round; Non-breeding males: Olive-brown |
| Size | 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm) in length, wingspan of 7.5-8.7 inches (19-22 cm) |
| Behavior | Social, often seen in flocks; undulating flight pattern; acrobatic feeders |
| Nesting | Nests in shrubs or trees; cup-shaped nests made of plant fibers |
| Special Features | Known for their late breeding season, which coincides with the peak abundance of seeds in mid-summer; state bird of Iowa, New Jersey, and Washington |
The American Goldfinch is a bright yellow bird that’s hard to miss. Males sport a vivid yellow body with black wings in summer. In winter, they turn a duller olive-brown.
These birds love open areas with scattered trees. You’ll often see them at bird feeders, especially if you offer sunflower seeds or nyjer seeds.
Learn more about American Goldfinches
2. House Finch
Here’s the information about the House Finch (Haemorhous mexicanus) in an easy-to-understand chart format:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | House Finch |
| Scientific Name | Haemorhous mexicanus |
| Habitat | Urban and suburban areas, farms, open woodlands |
| Range | Originally native to the western United States and Mexico, now widespread across North America due to introductions |
| Diet | Seeds, fruits, and occasionally insects |
| Identification | Males: Bright red head, throat, and chest with brown-streaked back, belly, and tail; Females: Brown-streaked overall, no red coloring |
| Size | 5-6 inches (13-15 cm) in length, wingspan of 8-10 inches (20-25 cm) |
| Behavior | Often seen in small flocks; social and vocal, with a cheerful, warbling song |
| Nesting | Nests in a variety of sites, including trees, shrubs, buildings, and hanging planters; cup-shaped nests made of twigs, grasses, and feathers |
| Special Features | Known for their adaptability to human environments; males’ red coloration is diet-dependent, varying from yellow to orange based on available food |
House Finches have brown-streaked bodies. Males have a red head and breast. These friendly birds are common in urban and suburban areas.
They eat a variety of seeds and fruits. You can attract them with sunflower seeds or by planting native fruit-bearing shrubs.
House Finch identification guide
3. Purple Finch
Here’s the information about the Purple Finch (Haemorhous purpureus) in an easy-to-understand chart format:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Purple Finch |
| Scientific Name | Haemorhous purpureus |
| Habitat | Coniferous and mixed forests, forest edges, parks, and suburban areas |
| Range | North America; breeding in Canada and the northeastern United States, wintering in the eastern U.S. and along the Pacific coast |
| Diet | Seeds, berries, and insects |
| Identification | Males: Raspberry red over most of the body, with streaked back and flanks; Females: Brown-streaked overall, with a white eyebrow and a whitish belly |
| Size | 5-6 inches (13-16 cm) in length, wingspan of 8.5-10 inches (22-25 cm) |
| Behavior | Often seen in pairs or small flocks; forages in trees and shrubs; has a rich, melodious warbling song |
| Nesting | Nests in trees, usually on a horizontal branch; cup-shaped nests made of twigs, grasses, and moss |
| Special Features | Males’ color can vary from pink to deep red depending on diet; known for their distinctive, sweet song |
Despite its name, the Purple Finch is more raspberry-red than purple. Males have this color on their head and breast, while females are brown and streaky.
These birds prefer coniferous forests but will visit feeders in winter. They love black oil sunflower seeds.
4. Pine Siskin
Here’s the information about the Pine Siskin (Spinus pinus) in an easy-to-understand chart format:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Pine Siskin |
| Scientific Name | Spinus pinus |
| Habitat | Coniferous and mixed forests, forest edges, gardens, parks, and backyards |
| Range | North America; found across Canada, the United States, and into Mexico; irruptive, meaning their numbers and locations can vary greatly year to year |
| Diet | Seeds (especially from conifers), insects, and some fruits |
| Identification | Brown-streaked overall with subtle yellow edges on wings and tail; slender, pointed bill |
| Size | 4.3-5.5 inches (11-14 cm) in length, wingspan of 7-9 inches (18-23 cm) |
| Behavior | Social, often seen in flocks; energetic foragers; may visit bird feeders, especially during winter |
| Nesting | Nests in coniferous trees; cup-shaped nests made of twigs, grass, and moss, lined with feathers |
| Special Features | Highly variable migration patterns; known for their buzzing calls and musical trills; can survive in extremely cold temperatures by increasing metabolic rates |
Pine Siskins are small, streaky brown birds with yellow edges on their wings and tails. They’re often seen in large flocks, especially in winter.
Look for them in coniferous forests and at feeders during cold months. They’re particularly fond of nyjer seeds.
5. Common Redpoll
Here’s the information about the Common Redpoll (Acanthis flammea) in an easy-to-understand chart format:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Common Redpoll |
| Scientific Name | Acanthis flammea |
| Habitat | Tundra, open woodland, scrub, and gardens; often seen in northern regions |
| Range | Circumpolar regions across the Northern Hemisphere, including parts of North America, Europe, and Asia |
| Diet | Seeds (especially from birch and alder trees), buds, and occasionally insects |
| Identification | Small finch with a stubby, conical bill; males: pink to red forehead, black chin, streaked sides; females and juveniles: paler with less distinct markings |
| Size | 4.5-5.5 inches (11-14 cm) in length, wingspan of 7.5-9 inches (19-23 cm) |
| Behavior | Often found in flocks, can be highly nomadic in search of food; active and acrobatic feeders |
| Nesting | Nests in shrubs or trees; cup-shaped nests made of twigs, grass, and moss, lined with down and feathers |
| Special Features | Known for their red caps and friendly, chattering calls; exhibit irruptive migrations, moving southward in search of food during harsh winters |
Common Redpolls are winter visitors to Michigan. They have a red cap, black chin, and streaky body. Males also have a pink wash on their chest.
These hardy birds breed in the Arctic and come south in winter. Look for them in birch and alder trees or at feeders with small seeds.
Finch Watching Tips
Want to see these feathered friends up close? Here are some tips:
- Set up bird feeders: Offer a variety of seeds to attract different species.
- Plant native plants: Finches love natural food sources like sunflowers and coneflowers.
- Provide water: A birdbath can attract finches, especially in hot weather.
- Use binoculars: Get a closer look without disturbing the birds.
- Be patient: Birds may take time to discover a new feeder.
Finch Behavior and Habits
Finches are social birds. They often feed in flocks, especially in winter. Many species have a bouncy flight pattern that’s fun to watch.
Male finches sing to attract mates and defend territory. Each species has its own unique song. Listening for these songs can help you identify finches even when you can’t see them.
Bird song identification guide
Finch Conservation in Michigan
While many finch species are doing well, some face challenges. Habitat loss and climate change can affect their food sources and breeding grounds.
You can help by:
- Creating bird-friendly spaces in your yard
- Supporting conservation efforts
- Reporting your bird sightings to citizen science projects
Join a bird conservation project
Seasonal Changes in Finch Populations
Michigan’s finch populations change with the seasons. Some species, like the American Goldfinch, stay year-round. Others, like the Common Redpoll, only visit in winter.
Spring and fall are exciting times for finch watching. You might see migrating species passing through on their way to breeding or wintering grounds.
Michigan bird migration calendar
Wrap Up
From the bright yellow American Goldfinch to the streaky Pine Siskin, Michigan’s finches are a diverse and charming group of birds. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just starting out, these little birds offer endless opportunities for observation and enjoyment.
Remember, each finch species has its own unique traits and needs. By learning about them, we can better appreciate and protect these feathered treasures. So grab your binoculars, head outside, and see what finches you can spot in Michigan’s great outdoors!