My Experience With Goldfinches Before 2015
Nearly every year since 2003, the first year I started feeding birds, I’ve had goldfinches in my back yard. Sure, there have been some years where they were heavier than others. I made a recording in May of 2011 where they were massing in the woods behind our property and the din was almost deafening. Have a listen.
(The recording was made on my iPhone from at almost 100 feet away so you may have to turn it up a bit. Sorry.)
Other than that year, the pattern was the same: they would become regular visitors during the winter, taper off a bit in the summer, disappear when plants got to seeding stages in late August and come back again for the fall/winter rush. This year that has not been the case at all.
My Goldfinches In 2015
This year, I bought some poorly stored thistle at Walmart. So, I started out with very inconsistent results. I kept finding them on my sunflower seed feeders and not so much on their thistle feeders. I knew the feeders were clean and the seed was recently purchased so I just wrote it up to an anomaly of sorts.
Finally, I decided to see if there could be a problem with the seed. I asked my local Wild Birds Unlimited buddy what she’d been hearing. She said nothing struck her about the goldfinch reports she’d been getting from customers. She gave me a small bag of thistle to try in my feeder. I could see her seed was shinier than mine which I knew meant oilier too. Do I have to tell you what happened?
Of course, within two days of putting out the new seed the feeders were covered up with goldfinches. I said my apologies to them for holding out on them and got ready to buy a new bag of thistle. Anybody that feeds birds will tell you how hard it is to throw away seed but I knew what I had to do. I threw some of it on my patio for the mourning doves but they didn’t go crazy about it. I knew it would take me way too long to get rid of it that way. So, I dumped it and moved on.
Still Not Here To Stay
After I replaced the old seed with the new the traffic picked up significantly for a while. Maybe a month or so. Then, I started noticing a tapering off when they should be settling in for the summer. I checked and cleaned my feeders one more time just to be sure. No effect on the traffic. So, pretty much from June or July of this year I’ve seen very spotty traffic back there and I can’t explain it. So, I’ve come to ask for your help.
What Has YOUR Goldfinch Traffic Been Like?
Please leave me a comment below and tell me where you live and what your goldfinch experience has been like this year. I’d love to hear your feedback! I’m baffled. The only change that’s happened this year is we had a tree just behind our property get split and had to be severely pruned. I should mention this tree is not directly near the goldfinch thistle feeders. I did consider just the change in the backyard cover may have spooked them. The only problem with that idea is I think they started tapering off long before the tree was even damaged in the storm this summer. Anything you can share will be appreciated. Also, if you could like this post on Facebook or share it on twitter maybe we could get even more input.
Best,
Jeff
We live in NE Atlanta, we had bunches of Goldfinches in late winter through late spring. I use a mesh feeder and I’ll get 10 birds on it at one time. Once the black eyed susans and other plants start to bloom I take the feeder down. Now that we are just into fall the feeder is backup but only 2 takers at a time on the feeder.
Hi David,
Thanks for stopping by and letting me know what’s going on in NE Atlanta!
Our pattern here used to be the same as yours. I use upside down thistle feeders that I keep clean and stocked with fresh seed. We’ve just not seen them here like other years. Hoping it picks up when it gets colder. Otherwise, I’m not sure what else I can do. I offer sunflower chips in a chickadee feeder and they’ll come to that but it does not make a dent in their actual numbers.
Jeff
I have always fed goldfinches sunflower hearts, niger and goldfinch food. Always kept everything clean. Used to get 20-30 a day between 3 feeders. It’s been almost 3 years and have only ever seen 1 or2. What’s happening? Almost all my friends say the same thing. Where have the goldfinches gone. Has it got something to do with Monosanta?
Hi Roger,
I get weekly updates from the Brome Birdcare people (they make squirrel proof feeders) and I haven’t had anybody mention problems with goldfinches. I still have trouble getting many of them at all. This is one of the first years I’ve actually had to empty, clean and refill a feeder simply because the seed got too old. What is it about Monsanto that you’ve heard besides their wide spread poisoning of our environment? Something specific to birds or goldfinches?
Jeff
I had read on one site that Monsanto products may be killing goldfinches besides butterflies. I live in Essexville Mi. and it’s been nearly 3 years since I had more than 1 or 2 goldfinches I miss them. Just getting regular finches
Hi Roger,
I have no doubt that Monsanto is behind something sinister. I had just not read about goldfinches and butterflies. I’m hoping our new President isn’t as disastrous as many are saying for the environment! I’m still only having 1 or 2 myself until I put up a chip feeder near my back door. Then I got upwards of 5. I hope their isn’t something chemically wrong with the seed I have out there. I’ll probably take it down in exchange for more chips and see what happens.
What makes my feeding challenging is I have squirrels in my back yard and I’ve got to baffle everything I put up. The finch feeders are not baffled because squirrels don’t care for thistle.
Do let me know if you try anything that increases their numbers.
Thanks for reaching out!
Jeff
I’m going to try thistle in bags.Put 3 bags out between both sides of house. Keep my fingers crossed.
Hi Roger,
When you say “thistle in bags” what kind of feeder are you referring to? Do you mean sock feeders?
Jeff
Yes sock feeders. They have been up about a month and nothing. The only worry I have with them is how long the seed will stay good.
Hi Roger,
A lot of that depends on where you are and what the weather’s been like. If it’s warm where you are, they do not have anything covering them above and you’ve had ANY rain, I would consider pitching them now. I’ve never used the sock feeders for that reason. The only time I would consider using it is if you were getting them emptied every day or so and the seed was never just sitting there.
Have you tried a chickadee feeder with sunflower chips in it? Goldfinches love that!
I just recently put some back out and now both my thistle and chip feeders are seeing more goldfinch traffic.
Something like this:
https://www.wildbeaks.com/becks-red-chickadee-feeder/?gclid=CjwKEAiA8JbEBRCz2szzhqrx7H8SJAC6FjXX2O_2vLXp0MeyjATw-35oGJB9go3Sox62Kd2GHh5yVRoCpynw_wcB
Make sure to hang it near a window close to your house to keep nuisance birds off and to raise your enjoyment. Goldfinches are the cutest but sloppiest eaters I’ve seen. The get the seed skin stuck on their face and look like a guy in a hotdog eating competition-LOL!
Let me know if I can help in any way.
Jeff
Hi Roger,
Have you had any luck with your goldfinches? I put chickadee feeder like I linked to in my last email and BOOM! I’ve got them all over the place now! Where I was lucky to see 2 in a day, I’m now seeing almost 20! They are emptying the chip feeder and lowering the level on my upside down thistle feeder by one perch level per day. Plus, I see them going to my hopper sunflower seed feeder in droves as well.
Let me remind you that I had a couple per day for MONTHS before making this change.
I would highly recommend getting a thistle feeder that protects the seed better and getting a small bag of thistle to try it out.
Here’s the one I use:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000ARMH4A/ref=asc_df_B000ARMH4A4832264/?tag=hyprod-20&creative=394997&creativeASIN=B000ARMH4A&linkCode=df0&hvadid=167143095066&hvpos=1o3&hvnetw=g&hvrand=15250273581658782625&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9013074&hvtargid=pla-275136553175
If that link doesn’t work, just go to amazon and look for “perky pet upside down thistle feeder”.
I also hang it from a dome that has a solid top like this:
https://www.amazon.com/Aspects-182-Super-Dome/dp/B000P1TB9K/ref=sr_1_8?s=lawn-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1487010748&sr=1-8&keywords=tube+feeder+dome
The reason I use this combo is all tube feeders are bad to allow water to drip down into the tube. Most of the domes that allow you to stick the hanging wire through are worthless! They do NOTHING to keep water out of the tube.
Hope you have more success soon and I’m looking forward to hearing back from you.
Best,
Jeff
Our goldfinches and red finches we’re here in Maryland in 2014. Plenty of them. 2015 fewer. 2016-2017. Nothing. This is not good.
Hi Joe,
I’m sorry to hear that.
Our goldfinches have been up and down throughout the year. Right now, I have a regular crew that is eating at the chickadee chip feeder and the upside-down thistle feeder. I’m getting ready to take down the chip feeder and replace it with hummingbird nectar which should thin the crowd quite a bit.
On the other hand, I seem to have a large group of woodpeckers and have even recently had a red bellied pair nest in a tree just over our back fence. Very cool.
What are you feeding your goldfinches?
Jeff
I live in La Jolla CA and have all types of Finiches, beautiful Anna’s Hummingbirds and from April until October we have Orioles come for grape jelly and nectar. This year the Goldfiniches were here in droves but just last week they stopped coming like overnight!
I have always purchased the thistle seed from the same bird store for 15 yrs. I either use a tube feeder which I empty and refill either weekly or when needed sometimes as often as every two days or I use a sock and the birds have always flocked to it, sometimes as many as 10 on a sock and tube perches full.
But now nothing, no birds touch either, no matter how many times I change the thistle.
In fact I don’t even see the Goldfiniches about anywhere. All the other birds are still coming of course the Orioles have gone for the season. SOMETHING MUST BE WRONG WITH THE THISTLE! Since I see this being reported across the country. Is the thistle poisonous in some way??? Not that the birds don’t like it! They are GONE!
Hi Mary,
I’m in TN and my goldfinches this year have been sporadic. Right now here in TN, they are feeding on plants that have come to seed and I expect them to return in a couple weeks or so. That may be the case where you are as well.
When you say you’ve changed the seed does this also mean you’re cleaning the feeder? Goldfinches are notoriously finicky eaters and even slightly dirty feeders will keep them away unless they are famished.
I’m glad you’ve been able to enjoy the other birds in your back yard.
Jeff
I live in midcoast, Maine and gold finches have Have always been prolific in my yard as it is landscaped to attract birds…as of late summer there is not a finch of any kind to be had…traumactic
Hi Robyn,
I’m sorry to hear that. By the way, a few years back my wife and I visited Portland and only ventured to the LL Bean Outlet in your direction. Beautiful country!
Every year in late summer, our goldfinches go away to eat from the kind of landscaping you’re talking about. They usually return before it gets too cold. I was pleased to see my first goldfinch on my chickadee feeder yesterday munching away on hulled sunflower seeds!
I’m hoping as we get deeper into the fall and winter that the traffic picks up.
As Mary had mentioned in the previous comment, I haven’t heard anything about thistle being poisonous or anything. My only advice is if you can hang a chickadee feeder near your back window or door so you can see who’s eating it. Also, if the thistle you have has lost its sheen, replace it. Goldfinches are probably the most particular feeders I’ve seen yet. If the feeder is dirty or the seed isn’t prime, they just won’t eat there unless forced to.
Hope this helps. Do let me know if they return anytime soon.
Jeff
I live in the Florida Panhandle. I use to have all kinds of finches at my feeders, but not now. Not a single one for 2 years now. I, too, thought it was the feeder or the food, but I still couldn’t attract any. I get the other birds, but no finches. Something is definitely wrong when I hear this from so many people around the country. Someone said there is a correlation between the decline of honey bees and the decline of finches. I fear it is environmental and probably manmade that is killing them. I am interested to see what the Cornell Lab of Ornithology National Bird Count shows this year for finch sightings. Very frustrated.
Hi Nancy,
Thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment. I hope your Thanksgiving and weekend were wonderful!
I had not heard of the correlation between the decline of honeybees and that of goldfinches. Let’s just forget a moment on how catastrophic for the food chain the honeybee situation could be if it continues. It’s not surprising that this trend could affect all manner of flora and fauna.
I hope it turns out to be a migratory fluke but your not having them for two years suggests otherwise.
Myself, I’ve had a very strange year goldfinch-wise. It seems like all I’m getting are ones passing through. I’ll get some visiting my feeders and water and then NOTHING. Then, they’re back. They have not been at the level I’m accustomed to for over a year.
Here’s hoping the Bird Count proves us both wrong!
Jeff
Hi Jeff, We live on top of mountain in northern West Virginia. We feed mostly black oil sunflower seed in chickadee feeders and have had literally hundreds of chickadees summer and winter for years. …often emptying 2 or 3 in a day. This year we have none. The juncos, titmice, nuthatches, chickadees and woodpeckers are all here ( and even a couple of bluebirds…. but no finches. Any incite ?
Wow, no chickadees in W.V. Bonnie. I have a few of them now and then still, but
no finches at all.
Hi Bonnie,
Thank you for stopping by. Chickadees have never been a problem here in Middle TN. I don’t remember a time they’ve EVER been scarce here either. I have no explanation or insight for this. I follow Brome Bird News and I don’t remember anybody asking why theirs have disappeared.
I have an update to the goldfinches story that I’ll be posting this week. There has been a tremendous turnaround but there is only one factor I can cite: cold weather. I won’t spoil it except to tell you I’m happy about the latest arctic front that made its way through here.
Wow, I finally have some gold and other finches at my feeder this year after none for over 2 years here along the Gulf in the Florida Panhandle. The only change in my platform feeder food is I added safflower seeds which have also attracted 4 pairs of cardinals, chickadees, and jays. Sparrows, blackbirds, and squirrels do not eat them.
Hello, We live in the Chicago area. We used to get a ton of Goldfinches. They would feed on niger thistle from a Droll Yankee feeder. Several years ago they disappeared. The feeder was thoroughly cleaned and replaced with fresh thistle, still no Goldfinches. Finally, three days ago, I saw a Goldfinch in our yard so we purchased a new feeder in hopes of them coming back. Nothing yet.
Hello,
So glad you’ve started to see them again! If I could recommend one thing it’s that you try one of those chickadee feeders with sunflower chips in it. They love them and will settle for thistle. I didn’t realize this myself until I got frustrated and just tried it. They buried me! Thanks for stopping by and letting us know what’s happening in your neck of the woods. Let me know if I can help in any way. Jeff
My goldfinches have recently disappeared as well. Today I’m at my kitchen table and noticed a large, majestic red shouldered hawk fly in and land on top of my patio umbrella. Now I know!
Hi Mike,
Thanks for stopping by and commenting. Where are you located and what are you feeding them? My goldfinches are going nuts right now and I’m feeding sunflower chips in a chickadee feeder and two upside down thistle feeders.
The hawk shouldn’t make much difference to them. I know mine barely move when they see others scattering. Somehow, I think they know they’re not his favorite meal-LOL! Of course, both of my upside down thistle feeders have rain domes above them which would make a swoop down on them very difficult.
Jeff
Hi, I too have been wondering where they all went. I live in Cambridge, On Canada. For has long as I can remember I had more birds than my feeders could feed at one time. Now I haven’t seen a bird in two to three years. I also bought my Niger seed at Walmart. Don’t know who processed it but it’s making me wonder Goldfinches were normally at my feeders from spring to the end of summer, especially when it rained. That seemed to really bring them out.
Glen
May 17/18
Hi Glen,
I would seriously consider buying some seed from your local bird store if possible. I’ve mentioned that goldfinches can be really picky about what they eat. Does the thistle look shiny or dull? Dull means it’s not fresh and the oil content is probably gone. I’ve seen them start feeding like crazy as soon as I got fresher seed. Also, consider adding sunflower chips if you don’t have trouble with squirrels or can baffle the feeder. I’ve been able to bring them back into my yard with the chips and THEN they’ll stay for the thistle but not if it’s not fresh. Also, make sure your feeders are cleaned because that’s the other thing that will cause them to diminish. Trust me, I know-LOL!
Let me know how you make out with my suggestions,ok?
Jeff
follow up: my goldfinches are back and in full yellow and black plumage although not in the same numbers. I live in the Raleigh, NC area. A local Wild Birds Unlimited manager told me that they usually spend summers up north once the snow is all gone and return to NC when the snows return. I’m seeing fewer birds but still a few. Thanks for your response…..Mike
Hi Mike,
Glad to hear your goldfinches are back even if not in the same numbers!
I’ve not noticed the pattern the WBU manager mentioned here in Nashville. For the past few years, they’ve just been hit or miss pretty much all year. Right now, as we’ve hit 90 for the first time this year, they are still in fine numbers and beautiful male plumage.
Hope they prove the WBU manager wrong-LOL!
Jeff
I live in the FL panhandle near the Gulf and had said in March that some finches were back after several years absence. That only lasted about 2 weeks. None at all since then. Have tried sunflower chips, fresh thistle, clean bird feeders, fresh water, etc. Also, have noticed no butterflies or bees of any kind either. Very strange and worrisome. A couple of hummingbirds, but they are gone, too. Only have the larger birds—cardinals, jays, red-winged black birds, doves, etc. and the sparrows. See an occasional Carolina house wren and chickadee. I don’t use pesticides and have a small pond and woods behind me. Something has changed because I have been feeding birds for decades. We have been going through a dry spell, but I don’t know how that would affect things. Thoughts?
Hi Nancy,
I’m sorry to hear you’ve been having so much trouble with the ecosystem in your area. I am not an expert on large scale pollution or disruption of habitats but I agree with you this IS worrisome. Do you have any friends who bird in your area that are all telling the same story? Let me thank you for all the positive things you’ve done in your area to help them survive. Not using pesticides and making sure the seed, feeders and water are all clean is a HUGE undertaking I know. I’m sorry you’re not being rewarded for your efforts. Are there any birding clubs in your area you could correspond with to see what’s up? Have you had any major polluter move into your area? With our current US leadership, I’m afraid the EPA is being slowly dismantled so many bets that used to hold are off. Please let me know what you’ve found out, ok?
I apologize for not being any more help, Nancy.
Jeff
Thanks for the suggestions. Will keep you posted if any changes.
My pleasure, Nancy. I sure hope somebody in your area can help you make sense of (and fix) this issue.
The American Birding Association may be of help. https://www.aba.org/
Here’s a search for clubs on the Bird Watcher’s Digest site:
https://www.birdwatchersdigest.com/bwdsite/connect/birdclubs/clubfinder.php?country=USA&state=Florida&clubsearch=Find%20clubs
Hope one of these helps.
Jeff
We use to have massive finches here in Oregon, but several years ago they just quit. One thistle feed feeder had 24 spots, all were full with a few waiting.
Our finch season was spring through summer tapering off for fall and winter.
We now have one sock and have seen a few in the spring.
I also think that something happened to the population.
Hi Stephen,
I’ve heard from many people how populations have changed their cyclical patterns but they always seem to come back at some point. For instance, since I’ve swapped out my chickadee sunflower chip feeder for the hummingbird feeder, the numbers have reduced somewhat. However, I’ve also seen their numbers pick up when the feeder goes back up. This year we planted zinnias and they LOVE climbing on them! We had no idea.
Have you tried switching to sunflower chips to see if that might lure them back? Sunflower seeds are too difficult for them and they more or less tolerate thistle to be honest about it. You might want to give that a try especially if you can hang a feeder near your back door.
Also, do you make sure to clean your feeders regularly? Goldfinches are notorious for being picky. In fact, it’s one of the reasons mine have cut back is my thistle feeders are a couple weeks overdue. I’ve seen them return after cleaning feeders, I swear to you.
The same goes for thistle. Walmart may have the best deal but I’ve seen a lot of that seed not be shiny when I’ve bought it. Again, not shiny means not as fresh and oily. This equals goldfinch fussiness.
I hope I’ve been able to give you some things to try that will help.
Again, I’m not reading anything about population declines and holes seem to be regional but only temporary.
Let me know if I can help in any way.
Jeff
I had a garden full of gold finches but just after the rain following the heat wave they have suddenly disappeared completely.
I live in Wiltshire and my sister who lives in Cornwall says the same thing has happened top her. Where have they gone ?
Can you suggest why ?
Jenny near Devizes.
Hi Jennifer,
Thank you for stopping by and commenting from Wiltshire!
Goldfinches are very flighty this time of year. Between extreme heat and rain, flowers and plant going to seed and general slowing of activity, they can be hit or miss. I would start out by giving the same advice I’ve given other readers. Make sure your feeders are clean (goldfinches are funny that way) and that your seed still looks good. I’ve had readers tell me just cleaning a feeder brought them back. If you feed thistle, make sure the seeds are still shiny. I know it sound ridiculous but I’ve also had readers bring them back by getting new seed.
If you’ve done the above and they’re still absent take heart. They WILL return!
I’ve had weeks where they’re devouring my thistle and ransacking my zinnias and then they’re just gone for few days.
What are you feeding them? One of their absolute favorites is hulled sunflower chips in a clinging style chickadee feeder. I’ve had this feeder alone bring back tons of them.
It’s interesting that you would write about this just as I’m about to publish a post about taking a late summer break from feeding. Look for that in the next week.
Enjoy your little ones and do let me know how you go with this.
Jeff
Finches have disappeared all together after feeding them for 26 years thru the winters. Feeders are clean and full and they have their own water source. I live in so. Nh.
Hi Paula,
Are you saying you haven’t had any this year at all? Are all of the people you know who feed birds in your area having the same issue?
Jeff
Why, no finches NW ohio SE Michigan ?
Hi Dave,
I can offer no explanation for this. How long has this been going on? Are there any birding groups on your area that might have some insight?
Jeff
Been feeding all the birds 365 for decade’s but I got new pine straw for my beds a week ago and my gold finches disappeared thought that might have something to do with that but reading some of the thistle stories on here about Walmart seed I don’t know.they have never disappeared before.i have 8 socks out there was 40 to 50 on them all day now I don’t see them at all will empty ? them out and try new seed and see what happens miss my little feathered friends…!
Hi Scott,
I’m not sure I understand about the pine straw. What are you using it for?
Could I also suggest that you wash the thistle socks? Goldfinches are extremely picky that way. And I would recommend buying some new seed and not using what’s left over in the bag from this seed.
You’ll get them back. You might also want to what I suggested a recent reader, Edward, did. Put out a chickadee feeder (google it) with sunflower chips in it. He had great success with that.
Let me know how you make out.
Jeff
I am so glad you wrote this post! I have had 1 male this yea r. I got excited and bought an upsidedown feeder. Many years ago I had many and enjoyed an upsidedown feeder. But the last 3 years I am lucky to see even one. I have a male, but he will not eat the niger, he go’s for the sunflower seeds. I do not write down and record info on my backyard guests, but I was so afraid of my favorite yellow bird wellbeing because I just don’t see them anymore except for my one male. About 3 summers ago I found 2 yellow males dead on my deck! I sure miss their chatter, and visits.?I live in northern Indiana.
I live in Canada about 1 hour outside of Toronto and like you watched the Gold Finch population disappear over the last few years. But this year I have I started to notice some returning to my feeder. Wondering if anyone else is having any success.
Hi Lynn,
Thank you for visiting the site and commenting!
I’ve had several readers writing me about their problems with goldfinches. That I know of, their numbers are not on the decline so let’s take a look at what’s going on.
I have no explanation for the two dead males you found on your deck unless you have a cat. Killing birds and bringing them home for you is very common. If not, I don’t know why that’s happened.
If you have a way to hang a small chickadee feeder from or close to a window that would be great. Fill it with sunflower chips and if you have them in the area, they WILL come!
If you search my blog for goldfinches I think you’ll also find more helpful articles.
Believe me, in the 15 plus years I’ve been feeding birds I’ve run into almost every situation possible. Let me know if I can help in any way.
Best,
Jeff
Hi Glen,
Personally, the only reason I’m not having goldfinches right now outside Nashville is because my feeders are down. Then readers like Lynn are having challenges with them.
I’m not aware of any overall decline. I’m not an ornithologist but I know migration patterns can come and go. I know in years where the thistle has come and gone early they will move on earlier than usual.
I’d love to hear what more people have to say about this.
I still stick to my three principles for attracting more goldfinches.
1. Make sure the feeders are clean and the seed is fresh. Goldfinches are very picky eaters. If you have nyjer that has lost its oily sheen, you should pitch it. During hot weather only put out a little at a time and don’t let it stay more than a couple weeks.
2. Try a chickadee feeder with sunflower chips in it. If they are anywhere in your area They WILL find you!
3. Feeding nyjer from an upside down type feeder like Perky Pet is great for giving them something that’s just for them and will at least partially exclude house finches.Plus, nyjer is NOT house finches favorite.
Hope this helps. Let me know if I can help in any way.
Jeff
We’re in south-central Illinois, we saw our first yellow finch in a very long time just yesterday. It’s back today. So far only one, I’m hoping they return, it’s been several years since we’ve had then at our feeders.
Hello,
Thank you for stopping by and commenting.
I’m curious what you’re feeding them? As I’ve told other readers, sunflower chips are one of their favorite foods and the word spreads quickly! Especially, if you can put it out in a chickadee (clinging) type feeder where house finches aren’t as keen to get at it.
Jeff
Glad I found your page. I just posted in my local Nextdoor to see if anyone else in the area had noticed the finches disappearing. I used a nyjer feeder and had 20-30 regulars in my San Diego, CA backyard. Then about a year and a half ago, they were gone overnight, and I’ve only had one come back sporadically. They were emptying the feeder daily, and then they were gone. I cleaned the feeder, bought fresh seed (although I started having trouble finding shiny nyjer) but they never came back. I finally took the feeder down this summer since it was never being used. I’ll try the sunflower chips, but I think all of the other birds in the yard might eat them up first! Anyway, still hoping mine make a return. They sure were cheerful and made me happy to watch them.
Hi Stacy,
Glad I could be of help. I have other articles on goldfinches and getting more of them on my site. Just search for goldfinch and they’ll come up. I think you’ll find them helpful.
The main thing I would stress is to make sure to feed the sunflower chips in a clinging style feeder like this one:
http://amzn.to/2m4KhQw
If you have a Wild Birds Unlimited near you they should have one too.
AND make sure to hang it close to your house. Ideally, from a window suction hook or from a plant hook right outside your back door. The design requires birds to cling to it and it’s too small for large birds to get on it. This limits its use to chickadees, titmice, wrens, goldfinches and some house finches. Having it close to your house excludes a lot of nuisance birds that are afraid to get that close. Having it someplace you can watch it from time to time is even better. Goldfinches are skittish around humans but they will feed at it.
Practically any time I have no goldfinch traffic in my back yard, I can get them to return with a chip feeder. It’s just happened again this year and it’s not at all cold here yet.
Let me know how it goes or if I can help in any way.
Jeff
We have lived near Townsend, TN and Great Smoky Mtns since 2001. Until 2019 there has been abundance of Goldfinches. Use clean feeders and nyger seed, but no birds since summer. Also feed black oil sunflower, suet, and mealworms. Lots of other birds, but no Goldfinches. Friend about 4 miles away has same experience. Missing our sweet Goldfinches.
No goldfinches at all this past year here in the Panhandle of FL near the Gulf coast. ?
Hi Ronald,
Thanks for stopping by and sharing about your experience with Goldfinches in your area.The only thing I can say is something I’ve noticed over the 16 years I’ve been feeding them near Nashville. That is that they can be very flighty and unpredictable. For instance, when we had that cold snap a couple of weeks ago I was mobbed. Then, when the weather returned to normal they all but disappeared. Today, with the rain moving in, they’ve returned again.
If you are not already doing it, I would put up a chickadee chip feeder close to your house. Right outside or attached to a window would be great. They like sunflower chips about 500% as much as regular sunflower seed or even nyjer. You can learn more about it in this post: http://birdoculars.com/sunflower-chip-feeder-more-goldfinches/
I would also recommend searching my blog for “goldfinches” for even more help with them. They WILL return.
Please DO stop by and let us know how it goes with them.
Best,
Jeff
I’m sorry to hear that, Nancy. I see from comment history that you’ve tried everything. I still know of no declines in the states or your neck of the woods.
Jeff
I live in Calabasas, Malibu area in the hills. I use the upside down feeder, sock feeder and have a mesh one. I’d have to fill all of them everyday and there were do many of them all year it was nonstop action at my feeders. Then about 4 years ago they stopped coming. I have no neighbors and surrounded by miles and miles of open space all the way to the ocean. Feeders are still up but nothing. I do hear and see them in the yard but they don’t vist any of the feeders ever anymore. Strange.
Hi Patrick,
It’s a very good sign that you still hear and see them. The only thing I know that will keep a goldfinch from eating thistle is if it’s gotten old (isn’t shiny any more) or if the feeder hasn’t been cleaned in a while. Even seed stored indoors in climate controlled areas will get old.
If that’s not the case I would try feeding them sunflower chips with a chickadee/clinging feeder. If they are around and find it you will never get rid of them-LOL!
Having said all that, I will say I’m in Nashville where it does get cold at times during the winter. I’ve had days it was near 70 with nobody and today, in the 50s I’ve gotten mobbed.
Don’t give up on them. They have always been fickle feeders. Look at your thistle first and then consider the sunflower chips. They like chips WAY more than thistle. Trust me.
Stop back in and let me know how it goes. Thanks for stopping by and commenting.
Jeff
Jeff,
We love watching our birds, but now they’ve disappeared. We still have a few nuthatches on our other feeder but finches are gone. We live in Western Oregon.
I’m usually very careful about the seed and they go through it so quick it never sat for long.
We’re so sad, we love what we call our bird sanctuary!
I’ll try to clean the feeder with vinegar and water and get fresh seed.
Hi Greta,
I’m sorry you’re having trouble with your bird sanctuary. How long have you been feeding birds in Western Oregon? What are you feeding them? Thistle?
If it is thistle know that it doesn’t take long at all for the seed to become unappealing to goldfinches.Even stored at room temperature. Goldfinches are very funny this way. If the thistle no longer has a sheen to it you should buy new and let the doves have it on the ground.
If nothing else works, I would try feeding sunflower chips from a clinging style feeder. Beck’s has a chickadee feeder that’s perfect and my goldfinches belly up to it every morning like clockwork.
Over the nearly 17 years I’ve been feeding birds at our house I’ve had to change tactics many times to make sure the birds I want are getting what THEY want.
Be patient. There’s no reason they shouldn’t return.
Jeff
Jeff,
We have a No/No type finch feeder. Cover on top, metal mesh tube with a base where finches can sit and use thistle.
We have NEVER had no finches two days in a row! We always have lots of activity.
We also have a flat mesh hanging feeder that has a finch mix and that is where we still have nuthatches feeding. Also we have a hummingbird feeder close by.
Hi Greta,
I’m actually not a fan of the No/No type feeders because of how difficult they are to clean completely. I use upside down thistle feeders made of plastic like the Perky Pet one. Slip out the perches and I know the inside can be completely cleaned and sterilized without any debris remaining.
But I digress…
You didn’t tell me how long you’ve been feeding them.
My goldfinches are up and down even now in winter. Whenever the temps go up towards even 50 degrees F they thin out a bit. When it drops, they’re back.
The other thing that impacts my goldfinches is the number of house finches. Whenever my house finch crew builds up to a mob, goldfinches back off because they don’t like them getting all over everything. As I’ve said goldfinches can be very temperamental.
I would give serious thought to trying the chickadee chip feeder (hung close to your house) with sunflower chips. That is their absolute favorite food and they will come out of the woodwork to get it.
Jeff
We’ve been feeding Goldfinch and Pine Siskin here north of Lake Conroe since early 2001. Where we live, we only see these little beauties from December to early May. The last years that we have seen them in great abundance was 2014 with a slow tapering off in 2015 and 2016. The last several years and this year (2020), we have seen just an occasional Goldfinch or Pine Siskin. We do have a large number of Chipping Sparrows all years during the same months and they have not declined. I hear pretty much the same story from the Wild Birds Unlimited shop south of us. I keep wondering if the population that migrates here in winter has a flyway path through north Texas and the wind-power gauntlet.
I have not seen a goldfinch for over 2 years here in the panhandle of FL. Very few goldfinches of any kind for that matter.
I am so happy to say our regular traffic is back and beautiful as always.
We have lots of finches yellow and purple, chickadees and nuthatches. We love watching them.
We cleaned the feeders well and added fresh seed. We had terrible rain storms the week prior to our birds disappearing.
Hi Kenneth,
I am not aware of a goldfinch decline caused by a migration path through a wind power grid. Sorry I can’t be of any more help.
Jeff
Hello again Nancy,
I am so sorry to hear your goldfinch decline has continued. I can only hope they decide to return soon. Two years is a big drought.
Jeff
Hi Greta,
After responding to others who are having serious goldfinch deficits it does my heart good to know I’ve been able to help in any way.
Good on you for taking the actions that you did!
Jeff
I live in S.E. Michigan and for years I have been feeding birds with several feeders designated for the Gold Finches. The two feeders would have many finches throughout the winter then completely filled throughout the summer and fall. For whatever reason, after last 2018/2019 winter, the finches have completely disappeared. Several times last summer and fall I would empty the finch feeders and replace them with new seed. Didn’t work……….I checked with my local Wild Birds Unlimited owner and he suggested that due to the extreme wet weather we had in the Spring of 2019, lots of wild flowers likely flourished, thus attracting the finches………..Perhaps that might have been the case but I’m not believing it since the feeders went untouched throughout the fall and now over this winter.
My theory is that the Goldfinch population is being decimated due to the increasing numbers of the predatory brood nesting habits of the Brown Headed Cowbird. Until last Spring, I have never seen any Cowbirds in my area since they are migratory and tend to travel north. But last summer and now this spring, I have seen an enormous number of Cowbirds coming to my feeders and remaining in the area.
For whatever reason, these brood parasitic birds are protected under the Migratory Species Act when they should be considered vermin along with the starling and English sparrow……..
Hi Don,
Thanks for stopping by and letting us know what’s going on in your neck of the woods!
Since this article was published I’ve had years with many and not so many here in TN. I have yet to have none during any season. Most of my issue has been with how incredibly picky they are about the seed and the feeder(s). For instance, even though we’ve had a mild winter here, on days it’s warmer they’re just not too worried about feeding at my feeders. The first day that even approaches cold they’re back.
One question I have to ask that’s going to sound stupid is: when you changed out your seed did you make sure to clean and disinfect the feeders as well? My goldies will tell me when it’s time if I’m too busy. Again, they stop feeding there. The only feeder that will keep them is the sunflower chip feeder. But even that one thins out when it gets warmer. That’s ok because I’m usually changing it out for hummingbird nectar.
I have no data on cowbird, starling or house sparrows causing declines in goldies. Have you seen anything?
Jeff
I found this website by chance when looking for a reason for my lack of goldfinches. It’s been two years since I have seen a goldfinch at my feeders. I live in eastern North Carolina and would usually see them feeding in late winter/early spring in their winter plumage and then all through the summer into the fall in their summer plumage. They would eat at my feeders and also enjoy the sunflowers and purple coneflower seeds at the end of the season. They are my favorite bird and it is truly upsetting — I miss seeing that beautiful flash of bright yellow and hearing them twittering to each other at the feeders. I will give it another try this year by offering a higher quality of food and some brand new feeders—I’m sure the squirrels will appreciate that!
Hi Sheri,
I’m sorry you’re having such a hard go of it with your goldfinches. The one thing I keep telling anybody who asks me is this. If there are ANY in your area you can attract them with a chickadee feeder with sunflower chips. Don’t buy a bunch of feeders and feed that you know are going to get eaten by squirrels. Instead, buy a pole system with a baffle on it to keep them off. Wild Birds Unlimited can show you exactly what you need.The chickadee feeder is this one: https://oakridgestores.com/birding/feeders-all-bird-feeders/becks-chickadee-bird-feeder-becksckd/?gclid=CjwKCAjw88v3BRBFEiwApwLevc03BaX7zOhKuceuvk9nBK3d4MGo_GKNbUp4YTruSLKofhcE8e1RChoCnJIQAvD_BwE
I would hang it close to your house and just see what happens. If you can get an inexpensive window suction hanger, all the better. If none show in two weeks, they are likely not around. Try again later in the season.
I know this sounds like a lot of work but goldfinches are notoriously picky eaters. I’ve told stories about the difference between them coming and not can be just that the nyger is not fresh enough. I’ve changed it, cleaned the feeders again and I’m being overrun again in middle TN.
Let me know if I can help in any way. Just respond to this comment and let me know how it’s going.
Best,
Jeff
After a couple weeks if you have no goldfinches
Every Summer until this summer I had an abundance of gold finches which were attracted to my cone flowers, sunflowers, and zinnia. This year no goldfinches, but I have a bunch of the red headed finches. Is it possible the red headed ones are keeping the gold finches away? NJ
Hi Cathy,
If you’re talking about the male house finches they are capable of mobbing feeders and goldfinches don’t like to be bullied. However, I have not witnessed house finches taking any interest in cone flowers or zinnias. They will of course go after your sunflowers. Are these birds bothering with your zinnias and coneflowers? If so, we may be talking about another bird. Does the NJ in your comment mean New Jersey?
Give me a little more info and we’ll figure out what to do.
Here’s a page on house finches: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/House_Finch/id
Jeff
I have never seen gold finches in my area, south east Michigan. I don’t feed birds but I have 4 gold finches nesting in my backyard. 2 males and 2 females
I grew lemon queen sunflowers last year, and would chop the heads off and put the heads by a water maple in my front yard inorder to feed squirrels. I cut down the water maple last fall because it’s roots were invading my sewer line.
I used the wood chips to fill in dips my backyard.
My backyard has turned into a gaint sunflower patch. They are like 11 ft tall weeds that have sprouted all over the yard. Squirrels will not come into my backyard because of my Doberman.
Anyway it is August, and I just noticed these little yellow birds flying out of the sunflower patches when I walk by. I probably will pull up sunflowers next year, my backyard has gotten too crazy.
Hi Kris,
Thanks for checking in from SE Michigan!
So glad to hear you’ve got goldfinches but sorry to hear your backyard has gotten out of hand-LOL!
I guess I never realized that sunflowers could be so invasive. It stands to reason, I guess, that with all those seeds in each flower that even one plant could make a patch even after squirrels had gotten to them. I’d say a doberman would be a serious deterrent to them-HA!
I hope that even if you do pull up the sunflowers that you’ll consider putting something back there for the goldfinches to eat. I would seriously consider feeding sunflower chips (Walmart) because goldfinches really have a time with a full blown seed. They CAN eat it but it’s a struggle.
You’ll see many more if you do, I promise.
Jeff
I live in Cork Ireland. I always had loads of Gold Finch in the garden and at the feeders. For about the last 4 or 5 years I have not seen one bird in the garden. I have not seen one Gold Finch in other places either. I am up every morning at cock crow and I have never seen one anywhere in this area. I travel to other parts of Ireland and I have not seen any either. I miss them a lot as they are such a beautiful bird. I hope their is some resolution to this as I am like as if I lost a relative. Please help me.
Hi Philip,
Thank you for stopping and taking the time to tell us what’s going on in your neck of the woods in Ireland!
I’m assuming you’re referring to the European Gold Finch? I’m sorry they seem to be making themselves scarce. The only thing I can say is that I couldn’t find any reference to them being in decline in the UK. Could you tell me what you’re feeding your birds and which birds come to your feeders?
If there isn’t some huge human infringement on their breeding and nesting areas it’s usually a predator that’s been allowed to increase in numbers. Or another bird that’s competing for their nesting sites.
Give me a little more information and we’ll see if we can’t figure out what’s happening here.
Jeff
Predator?? The only predator we have of the American Goldfinch is our little Sharp-shinned Hawk. When he flies in a perches, 99% of the Goldfinch fly away. This usually leaves 1 or 2 sitting rock solid motionless on a branch down below. The waiting game continues until one of the little yellow beauties makes a run for it. At that time the Sharpie drops out of the tree top and little yellow feathers fly. I hardly think my Sharpie could make much of a dent in the past hundreds of Goldfinch. We have not seen them in any numbers in many years here in SE Texas.
Hi Kenneth,
I’m sorry but I was trying to get some information from Philip regarding his situation in Ireland.
In the US it looks like both habitat destruction and human expansion have had an uneven effect on goldfinch populations depending on where you live. Here in TN, my goldfinch feeders are busy every year with only some mild cyclical variations.
Overall, the American Goldfinch is listed as of Least Concern for its population.
I’m sure your Sharpie is NOT the cause of your birds’ decline in your area. Also, climate change is having an impact as well.
Sorry I can’t give a more definite reason for this. I know you hated to see them go away. I’m just trying to be the best landlord I can while they continue to frequent my area and feeders.
Jeff
Hi Jeff,
I live in north-central Vermont, and this fall started out with many goldfinches and pine siskins at my feeders. Then about two weeks ago, they both disappeared. We have lots of chickadees, of course, white and red-breasted nuthatches, downy and hairy woodpeckers, but that’s it.
I have several different feeders out with a variety of high quality seeds, and suet.
I do have a sock feeder for thistle, and we have had rain, so I’ll take that down and get one of the Perky-Pet upside down finch feeders you linked to above.
But the Pine Siskins and the goldfinches had been feeding on the feeders with sunflower seeds and a tube with the nuts, fruits and sunflower hearts in it. None of that has changed, but they’re gone. Any ideas?
Kathy
Hi Kathy,
I would love to see a picture of your back yard in north-central Vermont! If you could email something to help@birdoculars.com I would appreciate it.
As for the goldfinches, Audubon has them listed as irregular in their migration patterns. They mainly stay northern where there’s abundant food. I’m not sure your feeding stations would qualify for a large flock to decide where to stay-LOL!
Here’s the Audbubon page link: https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/american-goldfinch
Having said that, here in TN they are also irregular. Mine appear to be back since the weather has turned colder but I spent over a month without a sighting of them September into Late October. It was weird because our fall has been unseasonably warm but they must have decided they needed to be elsewhere for a bit.
The mix of seeds and feeders you have sounds ideal. You mentioned you are feeding sunflower hearts or chips which they also love. Have you considered adding a chickadee feeder close to your house with nothing but sunflower chips?
Let me know if I can help in any way. That’s what I’m here for!
Jeff
Well this is an update for southeast MI. I am the person who had a crazy amount of sunflowers on my backyard. By end of summer the population went from 4 over a dozen. I have never put any feed out for them. They are still here their color has changed but I can tell they are still here from their yellow bellies. I am not certain what they are eating.
They are also at my mom’s (thumb of MI), but she has whooping cranes, hurons, Hawks, two bald eagles, Piper Glover (almost extinct in MI), wax wings, blue Jays…..abunch of stuff.
In her retirement she decided to do some permaculture on the farmland near her house, approximately 40 acres.
She yet to make any money on it, but it is definitely attracting wildlife. The rest of the farm is still monoculture.
I don’t think I have ever seen bald eagles, rabbit, squirrels, or whooping canes. There is a river that runs through the property.
She has planted hundreds of different fruit trees and planted wildflowers/milkweed in between the rows. In the summer there is tons of butterflies.
Hi Kristy,
I remember your story well. Thanks for giving us an update.
Are your goldies hanging around the sunflower plants or have you removed them?
Your mom sounds like she’s got an oasis on her hands! All those birds AND the different cultures you mentioned. Good on her for dedicating space for permaculture!
What are you planning to plant or have you already?
Jeff
My mom plants for insects/pollinators, so do I.
Wooping cranes aren’t native to the thumb, but I guess the DNR decided to introduce them there.
Because the thumb of Michigan is a peninsula on a peninsula it is a big migration spot. Unfortunately the windmills have had a major impact on the all water fowl that come here as well as other large birds. People there voted against putting more up. You used to see a dozens flocks flying over head in the spring and summer. Now you barely see any, and the flocks that do fly over are really really high up.
There needs to be more research where windmills are put up. I am all for clean energy, but at what expense.
I have gradually taken down the wild flowers and sunflowers when the seed is gone.
Hi Kristy,
I agree there needs to be more research done on wind power. I too believe in getting off oil, coal and even gas but the alternatives need to do more than line peoples’ pockets.
For instance with wind. One huge study I saw showed it had very little impact, if any, on bird populations and migrations and another wasn’t so sure.
Jeff
Greetings Jeff
Tuning in from Peterborough, Ontario Canada. I recently moved to Peterborough and set about putting up feeders. The lesser goldfinches and black-capped chickadees were having daily feasts until this past weekend. All of a sudden I didn’t hear any birds in the trees and nobody was coming to the feeder. I cleaned the feeders out and have refreshed the seed, My mom lives 5 minutes away and her feeders are chocked with birds. They haven’t come back to my yard…yet. Thoughts?
Heather Clark
Hi Heather,
Thank you for stopping by and sharing what’s happening in your neck of the woods!
I can only say that goldfinches can be very unpredictable at times. If you’ve had them and you’ve refreshed your feeders and seed since then it should just be a matter of time. Especially if your mother has them not five minutes away.
What are you feeding them? Thistle? Sunflower chips? Nothing I’ve seen will bring them back faster than a chickadee chip feeder close to your house with sunflower chips in it.
This article was written in 2015. Since then I’ve had sometimes feast or famine but it rarely lasts very long. Especially in the winter.
Right now, I’m being assaulted by them after having them disappear from my yard for over a month.
Patience may be all that is needed here.
Let me know if I can answer any other questions. It’s why I’m here.
Jeff
Success!!
Well, I commented back in June about my lack of goldfinches. I hadn’t had any at my feeders for about two years, and they are my favorite bird, so it was tough. I took Jeff’s advice—bought some new smaller bird feeders and put out sunflower chips (along with a bunch of other new seed). I also added squirrel baffles to the new feeding stations and cleaned the feeders regularly. But still, nothing. I was going to post that I was giving up and they were gone for good, but today, just glancing out my window at the feeders, I saw one! He hung around for a good while and has gone to several of the feeders to sample the different items on the buffet. Hopefully, this positive trend will continue. Thanks for the help and suggestions.
Hi Sheri,
So good to hear from you again! It sounds like you’ve really worked hard to bring them back. I still have not seen nor heard any reason why they should not be in E NC.
That you’ve spotted one is indeed good news! Once he tells the others you should start to see an increase.
Help the process along and don’t laugh. Every now and then when you think of it close your eyes and imagine a back yard full of goldfinches. Trust me. It helps even if it sounds woo-woo-LOL!
I’ll just close by saying I think you’re in for a great Christmas gift this year.
Please let me know if I can help in any way. It’s why I’m here.
Jeff
I live in Boulder CO. I have been baffled by the disappearance of my goldfinches beginning several years ago. For many years we had dozens of them around, primarily hanging around on the nyger feeder. But the last two years we have had very few. I have changed out the seed several times putting in new seed, but that has not made a difference. The feeder is by itself in front of the kitchen window with two walls of the house protecting it. It has been there for years. Several years ago we moved our other theaters that had been fairly near that one and put them on the other side of the house. From what I read, they should have liked that privacy. I have asked many people what they thought the problem might be. I still don’t know and haven’t gotten any answers other than the importance of seed quality. Of course this concerns me in the big picture of the hugely diminished number of birds. Any thoughts? Thank you
Same experience here in East Tennessee. Niger is fresh and still no GF.
Hi Cara,
Thank you for writing and letting us know what’s happening in your part of the US!
I have not found ONE cause for this that would extend for a few years. I know this past year there was a shortage of food in their wintering grounds so they had to come to the US. I know this winter has been the biggest year I’ve had for many years with goldfinches.
It looks like you’re ticking all the boxes with keeping the feeders clean and the seed fresh. My goldfinches haven’t been affected by my moving the feeders even closer but I also offer sunflower chips in feeders right outside my back door and they’re mobbed. I read where it can take them up to six weeks to adjust to a feeder move but I’ve not seen that myself.
In the overall picture, there is no reason other than the continuous effect of climate change for the birds to disappear from your area. At this stage, you only should have seen a decrease and not a complete evacuation.
Sorry I couldn’t be more helpful. I will say that during my lean months (fewer goldfinches) the absence of sunflower chips sends them looking elsewhere. I typically swap out my sf chip feeders for hummingbird nectar but keep up the thistle feeders. I notice right away a decrease in their visits. They just like sunflower chips WAY more than thistle.
Hope this helps and do stop back in to tell us how it goes, will you?
Jeff
Hey Ronald,
I’m in Nashville and I would seriously recommend to you what I did to Cara. Put up a chickadee feeder (google Becks feeders) and see if they don’t find you in a few weeks time.
Jeff
Thanks Jeff. I will give it a try. BTW, I live near Knoxville Airport in Blount County.
Hi Ronald,
Do let me know how it’s going in a few weeks, will you?
My wife grew up in Caryville.
Jeff
Hi Jeff. Thank you for your feedback. With my suet and black oil sunflower seed feeders, I do have a Niger/sunflower chip combined feeder. I have indeed seen two or three on that feeder. Maybe I need to mix it with more sunflower chips. I will give you an update. Thanks again. Cara
Hi Cara,
I would set up a dedicated chip feeder for sure. They go nuts over that! I would put up one of those Beck’s Chickadee feeders I told Ronald about. They love clinging and eating!
Do let me know if that brings them back.
Jeff
I went from no goldfinches for several years to a lot this year. I also have purple finches, which disappeared for some time too. I notice that the goldfinches are not as interested in the sunflower chips as they are in the finch mix, which includes niger mixed with sunflower chips. It could be that the sunflower chips are just a lot smaller in the mix and are easier for them to eat. I now have three feeders solely dedicated to “finch food”, but they do eat at the other feeders as well. Putting up squirrel baffles probably helped to bring them back to the yard, since the squirrels had pretty much taken over the feeders. I also added several more feeding stations with about six or seven more feeders to let them choose from a variety of bird feeders. I have been enjoying watching them so much! (One weird note that has nothing to do with finches is the fact that I didn’t have any dark-eyed juncos this winter, which is very strange.)
We’ve had one of the better years for our Goldfinch over that of the last 5 or so in SE Texas. Still about 10x as many Pine Siskins.
Hi Kenneth,
I have the same thing here in TN. In fact, this year has been probably one of the very best in the 18 years I’ve been feeding them. I’m interested to see if this migratory flock turns around and goes back up north when summer comes. I hope not.
Do you have many house finches, juncos or white throated sparrows? I get the juncos and sparrows in the winter EVERY year and have house finches all year. I’m curious as to whether SE Texas is cool enough for the juncos and sparrows. I suspect not.
Let me know.
Jeff
Hi Sheri,
I find it amazing that you’re having a great year for goldfinches when Cara is having a problem with them in Boulder CO. I know you’re not exactly next door neighbors geographically but CO is still considered out west. Hmmm.
I should make a clear distinction here in food. What most pet stores call “chips” are NOT chips but hulled sunflower seeds with the occasional smaller broken pieces. The chips I’m talking about and use are hulled sunflower seeds that are crushed into smaller pieces that goldfinches love. The chips put in finch mix are crushed even smaller which is why you’re having so much success with it. Unfortunately, I’ve yet to find a sunflower chip product that has pieces as small as those in the finch mixes. I would snap it up in a heartbeat because I know goldfinches just don’t like working that hard for their sunflower seeds-LOL!
Squirrel baffles are an absolute necessity for anybody who has them in their back yard. I write about this in this post:
http://birdoculars.com/how-to-feed-squirrels-successfully/
I would love to see a pic of your back yard and your feeders! I’ve never fed at more than seven feeders and it’s already a full-time job keeping stuff filled, clean and safe.
The juncos are strange because I wouldn’t have thought you would ever have had many. I get them every winter. I know they come generally south for the winter but mine leave as soon as it gets warm. How they would go where you are and decide to stay is a mystery to me.
Jeff
I am in eastern North Carolina. The juncos only come for the winter months. The old-timers around here call them snow birds. I get too many most winters. However, I haven’t had any this winter at all. It’s just strange to see how different it is from year to year. And you are right about the sunflower chips being too big for the goldfinches. I guess I could buy a bag of “chips” and smash them up myself!
Hi Sheri,
Sorry, but I got my Sheris mixed up? LOL! Who knew two people would be commenting on the same post would spell their names the same way-HA!
I’m still surprised you don’t have any juncos this year. I don’t have a bumper crop but they’re still here and I see them daily.
I get the sunflower hearts and chips at Walmart. Pennington Select. The Walmart site shows a bag with just hulled sunflower seeds but I promise there are plenty of smaller pieces. My two Beck’s chickadee feeders stay mobbed all day and that’s what I’m feeding them.
Just know that what some manufactures call chips are NOT chips at all. But my goldfinches have no trouble eating the bigger hulled seeds either.
Hope this helps. Let me know how it goes for you, will you?
Jeff
I live in Hudsonville, Michigan which is in southwest Michigan.
I had a lot of Goldfinches up until approximately December of 2020, then suddenly within a few week all the Goldfinches disappeared. It is now the middle of March 2021 and I have yet to see one.
There were approximately 10 Juncos here this year, last year we didn’t see any.
Also, last year, 2019-2020, and the year before we had a large amount of white crowned sparrows but this year none. They were replaced by a few chipping sparrows this year.
In the meantime the nmber of House finches has also declined by about 50%
Hi Jerry,
I have heard of goldfinches irrupting from northern places like Canada to the US but not from southwest Michigan further south. Still, my goldfinches started to really pick up just before December 2020 and have been mobbing me since. Until the last few days. Now, I have like a handful and am wondering if this huge flock has gone back to where they came from. I would be very interested to hear if they start showing up where you are on their way back this week. That is, of course, if they ARE going back now. I’d love for you to update us on whether this happens or not.
My gut feeling is that our early warm weather just told them it was time. My house finches, juncos and other birds have not been affected. Birds just aren’t as worried about eating when it moves into the 60s and 70s at this point.
I’m hoping that all of the goldfinches are not gone because I love them and I miss their sweet songs.
Are you still having mostly winter temps now?
Jeff
I did get 2 Becks Goldfinch feeders. I was shocked to see their size, tiny little things. I put up the first one and within 24 hours the sunflower seeds were gone thanks to Redwing blackbirds. They did not have any problem clinging to the side. I am quite disappointed and have not been able to get a response back from Becks about the issue to find out whether they have any suggestions. Do you?
So…in short, still no goldfinches.
Hi Cara,
Glad to hear your update and sorry you’re still having some issues. Trust me, if they’re there, we WILL get you some goldfinches. Right now, mine have made themselves somewhat scarce but will return in a bit. I think the big migrating flock just moved on.
The first thing I need to know is where you put them up? If you’ve hung them right outside a window, it is very unlikely that redwing blackbirds would dare to use them. Especially outside a window of a room you use a lot and are frequently in. If they have been put out with other feeders away from the house, anything will try their hand at it. The clinging aspect is not the main deterrent. That’s one of the reasons they usually refer to these type of feeders as “resistant” and not “proof”.
If you have them out in the yard, take them down for a week. Then get a window suction type feeder holder and put one of them back up right outside the window. If you don’t want them ON the window, do you have a hanging plant hook on the soffit near a window you could hang a short chain and then your feeder so it will be right outside your window. That’s what I’ve been doing for years and only house finches, goldfinches, wrens, titmice and such use it. Nothing bigger has ever tried it.
Let me know if this helps and if I can be of any more help.
Unfortunately, it looks like Beck’s is trying to sell their business so I wouldn’t expect a lot of customer service right now. I could be wrong.
Hi Jeff,
I came across this post because I did a google search for “where are the goldfinches 2021” and your post was one of the first I came across. We live in Albuquerque, NM and have always had a large population of lesser goldfinches from early spring until late fall. They are actually the most prolific spring, summer, and fall bird in at our thistle feeders. This spring we have yet to see a single goldfinch. In fact many of the songbirds are missing from our feeders this spring. Nothing has changed with our feeders and the resources available in our yard.
It’s a notable difference and I wanted to record it somewhere in the case that others in the SW region are experiencing the same. Based upon Cara’s observations up in Boulder, it sounds like we’re not alone, although we did not experience diminishing numbers in previous year, just a dramatic absence this year.
Cornell Lab notes that “Lesser Goldfinches at the northern edge of their range disappear in cold winter, but we don’t know where exactly they go.” Perhaps they were in Texas and the freezing temps killed them off? What are your thoughts?
-Nicole
Hi Nicole,
Sorry to hear about your goldfinch numbers in New Mexico. The only major issue I was aware of is that there seemed to be a sharp decrease in food available to them while they were in the north. This caused them to move south much earlier than usual. I’ve not heard if they would stay or move back to their normal patterns. I only know that I experienced a HUGE increase in my winter goldfinch feeder traffic this year. They left me about a month ago and now I only have the normal residents. I can’t be sure how many are still here. I’ve had to take down their favorite sunflower chip feeders due to a couple sick house finches. Until they go back up, I can’t be sure how many have remained.
I would love to hear from more people in your part of the US. I’m sorry I can’t be of more help. I really hope they make a surprise reappearance very soon for you!
Jeff
we used to get 10’s of goldfinches here in chester county pa. i have not seen one since last fall
the is a mystery here…
Hi Daniel,
Thanks for stopping by and reporting from Chester County PA!
The one thing I’ve learned with goldies is that no two years are the same. I just checked and the Audubon bird guide has them listed as “Widespread and very common, although possibly has declined recently in some areas.” The good news is that they breed late in the season (June-July) so they may still be making their way to you.
Keep us posted, will you?
Jeff
Hi Jeff,
I too ran across this post searching for why our lesser gold finches disappeared. We live in Tucson, Arizona. Our nyjer feeder was loaded with them in April to the point we ran out of our ordered nyjer seed and had to buy from a local hardware store. The gold finches disappeared and we figured they didn’t like the seed. When our order arrived we emptied out the old seed and replaced it with new hoping they would come back. So far, it’s just a few. This exact thing happened last year…. So we wondered if they migrate to where it is cooler in the summer. Either that or next year we buy a bigger supply of seed for the Spring so they don’t leave us for better food!
Barb
Hi Barb,
I don’t think you caused them to leave but may have been one factor of many. I’ve got to ask: 1.) did you clean the feeders before restocking them? 2.) have you ever fed sunflower chips from a clinging chickadee-style feeder?
I’ve had them seem to disappear during summer because I generally replace my chip feeders with hummingbird feeders. Nyjer may be on their list but it’s NOT their favorite. I’ve had them come out of the woodwork after months of nyjer feeding when the sunflower chips come out.
Jeff
I am in Will County Illinois. I have had flocks of goldfinches for years. Last November they disappeared. I finally saw 1 goldfinch the end of March 2021. Just 1 and I haven’t seen any since that time. I have tried just about everything. Clean feeders, fresh food. I had Nyjer out all winter and no takers. I have put out mixed seeds for finches and still no luck.
RLee
RLee,
I think the Boreal conifer issue that caused a LOT of finches and others to relocate either ahead of time, to different places, or both has had a major impact this past year. I’m hoping things will settle down in 2021.
Keep welcoming them with your feeders and they should come back at some point.
Check in and update when you can, please?
Jeff
I believe it has been several months since I first asked about the absence of goldfinches here in Boulder Colorado. We still have not had a return. I have tried different seed and seed feeder‘s. I tried the Beck’s sunflower seed feeder that you recommended Jeff and the blackbirds completely consumed all the seed. It was most frustrating. It was clearly not a clingers only feeder.
We have had more Goldfinches than last year. But still not many compared to the Pine Siskins and Chipping Sparrows that accompany them.
K. Drake SE Texas
Hi Kenneth,
Thanks for checking in and updating us. I’ve had more goldfinches in Nashville than I’ve had in a long time. I think the Pine Siskins were really hit hard by the Salmonellosis outbreak.
Jeff
Hi Cara,
Sorry that your goldfinch situation has not improved. Did you put the chips in the Beck’s feeder close to your house? I’ve never had a problem with blackbirds bothering mine hung just outside my back door. Any bird with the time and opportunity will learn how to use any feeder. With my sunflower feeders all down due to a couple sick house finches, my cardinals have even learned to use the squirrel-proof peanut feeder! The just peck away at it like woodpeckers.
Jeff
I live in So.New Hampshire……havent’ seen any for about 2 years…..saw one last month at regular feeder. Put out nyler but haven’t seen another yet.
Hi P.Morel,
Something I’ll start recommending to people is the Audubon app. I learned a bunch I didn’t know about them yesterday by going to Goldfinches in it. Sounds like they are very migratory and it’s actually considered unusual to have them all year. Like I’d mentioned to Kenneth, the lack of seeds in Boreal forest caused a lot of migration pattern disruptions and brought a LOT of Salmonellosis sick birds to various parts of the US. I know I’ve had more goldfinches this year than I have for many years. BUT…one day around a month ago they, all but a few, completely disappeared. Hopefully, things will improve as we move into a normal migration period this fall.
Jeff
I live in Escondido in Southern California and have mesh tube feeders in the 2 trees on my front lawn. I’ve been enjoying the goldfinches for several years. There have always been at least a dozen that fly back and forth between the 2 trees all year round. People would often stop and point. About a month ago there were suddenly no goldfinches at the feeders. I used to have to fill them every couple of days and now a week had gone by and they were still full. I was convinced it was the seed. I figured I was stuck with an expensive 25 lb bag of bad niger seed. I went to a different feed store and bought a small bag of niger that just came in so it was very fresh. I cleaned the feeders and filled them with the new seed. It’s been 3 weeks since I’ve done that and all I see at the feeders are an occasional house finch or sparrow. I miss my little gold beauties.
Hi Shelley,
I feel your pain. I had an unheard of bounty of goldfinches this past winter. I believe this was due to the boreal forest conifer seed shortage that had them dropping down into the US in droves. Unlike you in California, I don’t see goldfinches year round in any great numbers. However, about three weeks ago they all but disappeared. Now, I think I have ONE mating pair that feeds every day. And they were likely late in getting started so they just decided to stay.
You’ve done everything you possibly can with only one exception. I would consider adding a chickadee (Google Becks Chickadee) feeder with sunflower CHIPS. They’re not expensive. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen goldies just appear after adding that ONE thing to my back yard. In fact, I believe my recent lack of them is directly related to my swapping the chickadee goldfinch feeder with my hummingbird nectar.
I would give it a shot and give it some time for them to find it.
Do let me know how it goes, will you?
Jeff
We live in Northern Kentucky just South of the Ohio river, for over 20 years we had lots of goldfinches, purple finches too, couldn’t fill the feeders fast enough. The last couple of years fewer and fewer. We’ve seen fewer than half a dozen all spring. We’ll try sunflower chips and a new brand of thistle.
Hi Curt,
Sorry to hear you’re having trouble with your goldfinch traffic. I know numbers have been off many places the last few years. I know they’re also picky eaters. The main things I try to do is make sure the feeders are clean and thistle is still shiny(oily). If you put out chips, try the clinging type chickadee feeder I recommend and put it close to your house. Hang it off a window if you can. Discourages nuisance birds and makes the goldfinches feel special. Yes, I’m serious.
Let us know how it goes, will you?
Jeff
Hi Jeff,
I live in the upper peninsula of Michigan in Escanaba.
I haven’t seen a single goldenfinch whatsoever this season of 2021 compared to all the all the other years…
Just quite concerned about it and thought you would like to know ? well leave feedback if they hopefully make there way back up here.
Hi Jason,
Thank you for stopping by and reporting on your situation there.
I’m sorry to hear they have not made their way to the upper peninsula so far. I know there was a disruption in migration caused by the Boreal forest issue where pine siskins, goldfinches and others had to leave because the conifers didn’t produce enough food for them. A lot of people either experienced unprecedented numbers, especially during the winter. What I don’t know is how that affected them getting back to their old patterns of migration.
Do keep us informed and let us know when you see your first. Make sure the feeders are cleaned and emptied if they’ve sat unused for any length of time. Thistle seed can be tricky that way. Also, consider adding a sunflower chip feeder if you haven’t one already.
Best of luck very soon!
Jeff
Hi Jeff Thanks for replying back,, I apologize for my response so late just got side tracked and busy ugh anyhow yes I will definitely leave feedback if I ever do see Golden Finches make there way up here to the U.P.
and could please let me know that they still exist… that’s all that matters to me there still around somewhere where ever that may be..
Hi Jason,
I appreciate you taking the time to get back to me. Trust that I’ve got a few goldies right now. Not many but they do come every day. The biggest bunch I had was this winter when they were displaced by conifer trees not producing. They DO still exist. I promise. Here’s hoping they’ll return to you this summer or winter at the latest.
Keep me posted.
Jeff
Well the sunflowers in my back yard have started to produce seed. I currently have 6 actively feeding in my sunflower patch in soth east Mi. My whole yard would be a field of sunflowers if I didn’t cut the grass. I just let a section grow and cut around it. Amazing what one little seed packet of lemon queens I bought years ago can produce considering I don’t water them or do anything to care for them.
It is difficult to track how many there are, I counted six actively feeding in the patch this morning.
There is also two pairs of Cardinals. They looked super fat at the end of summer last year.
Sigh, someone reported the sunflower patch to the city. After seeing it was neatly mowed around it they are cool with it.
Hi Kristy,
So glad to hear things are going so well in your own little paradise! Thank you for brightening mine and others’ days!
I can’t believe somebody “reported” your sunflower patch but good on you to make sure it was well maintained and the lawn coiffed as it should be.
Enjoy your summer feeding and don’t be a stranger, ok?
Jeff
I just had to ask Kristy, Why would the city not want you to have sunflowers. That is the craziest thing I have ever heard. I certainly hope there are redeeming features to your city because that sounds like you must have armed militia roaming around. I’m so sorry. Cara
Oh it is probably my neighbor that reported me. His grass is like a golf course. He has called the city on me for not edging my lawn. He is retired and has pretty much nothing better to do.
I don’t keep junk or anything like that in my yard. I like planting stuff that feeds the butterflies, bees, and birds.
Oh, now I remember. Last year I grew pumpkins. I didn’t realize how big pumpkin plants get, and he called the city because they were creeping on to his lawn. It wasn’t about edging
He could have just said something to me instead of reporting me.
I gave away pumpkins to my neighbors who have kids and dropped off the rest at a church that was helping families impacted by covid.
Hi Cara and Kristy,
In my experience, it’s almost always ONE person who gets up in arms about something! Calling the city is something you do if you suspect a meth lab and NOT for an issue you have with your neighbor’s choice of plants. Your hearts are both in the right place.
Just for a quick laugh: before we replaced our privacy fence, our neighbor decided they didn’t like the old one facing them so the painted it!!! That’s right. Painted OUR fence on the side facing them. Do you think they could have just asked us when we were going to replace it or if we’d mind? Sure. Did they? NO!
Jeff
I am in the far western suburbs of Chicago (Kane County) and have noticed a dramatic decrease in goldfinches over the last few years. We used to get at least a dozen daily – to the point neighbors would comment and playfully tease us about our pretty pet birds because they enjoyed watching them too. I still have a lot of house finches, house sparrows, cardinals, robins, mourning doves and Eurasian collared doves. I also get regular hummingbirds for breakfast and dinner. But I have probably seen only 5 or so goldfinches this entire year so far. I miss them and their bright splash of yellow.
Hi Jen,
Thank you for checking in from the western suburbs of Chicago!
I’m sorry to hear of your decrease in goldfinches. I’ve heard from others they’ve seen a similar trend but it flies in the face of what’s happened to me in the last year or so. This past winter and spring I saw more than I’ve ever seen in my eighteen plus years of feeding birds.
All I can say is don’t give up on them. Keep putting your food out, keep your feeders clean and hopefully very soon you’ll see a turnaround in your numbers.
Check in whenever you have anything to report, ok?
Jeff
We are having a very warm (hot!) spring here in the Texas Hill Country. Lots if rain too. Unfortunately we have not seen a single finch or painted bunting. We usually have several pairs of buntings and tons of finches. Nada this year. They left last e last fall and haven’t returned. New food, clean feeders, plenty of water, but nada. Other breeds are plentiful. This is the first time I’ve seem this in our 8 years here
Hi DMac,
They must have left your place to come to ours-lol! This past year has been the most goldfinchiest since I started feeding birds over 18 years ago.
I know there was a problem with northern conifers which caused a disruption in migration this past year. They are not in any danger of decline that I’ve heard of.
Keep doing what you’re doing and hopefully they’ll come back around before winter.
Do let me know when you’ve got anything to report, ok?
Jeff
Good discussion!
While the food & type of feeders we’re providing may have some small effect on the visits by particular birds, there are two more important factors involved-(1) land usage changes. Eg- Chicago’s OHare Airport was built on the site of a large apple orchard out in the middle of farm country (hence the ORD designation)…Today, 80 yrs later, it’s in the middle of a much larger pavd-over metopolitan landscpe. ..Habitat loss is the biggest problem facing Mother Nature….and
(b) natural populations fuctuate according to species specific patterns. The 17-yr cicada is an extreme example. Finches of all types are prone to less pronounced “irruptions” every few years. I’m now in central WI where our usually abundant goldfinches are at low ebb this year…It’s not global warming, not “pollution” and not any change in my feeders– they’re just due for a fall in population. (Look up “N-K Population Model”)
Occasionally disease will make changes in things. 20 yrs ago, the newly introduced West Nle Virus virtually wiped out the blue jays, cardinals and crows in the Chicago area. It took almost 10 yrs for the population to recover.
ps/ to Kristy– Call my uncle Guido– he’ll solve that problem with your neighbor for you.
Hi doc,
Thanks for stopping by and adding to the discussion!
No doubt, habitat destruction is central to the challenges both humans and wildlife face.
I’m also aware of species-specific pattern changes. The problem is they’re not a pattern until AFTER they’ve happened which is what catches so many off guard.
I’ll need to look more into N-K Population Model.
The disease I was referring to was to humans and not directly affecting birds. The psychic energy that a scared population gives off can put other species on alert which can affect their normal routines.
I almost suggested your Uncle Guido but didn’t want to speak for you or him-LOL!
Jeff
Jeff: I came across this article/comment thread because this morning some bird group or other (I lost that email) alerted me to the fact that goldfinches are “facing a disaster of epic proportions.” I only caught the headline. With further research: Apparently salmonella + Climate Change is wreaking havoc with goldfinch populations.
Checking in from Santa Barbara, CA. I’m surprised no one has mentioned Cosmos as a natural feeder for goldfinches. When I had Cosmos flowers growing in my yard, I had a heck of a lot more Lesser goldfinches visiting to feed.
Buying nyger/niger/thistle seed was something I tried for several years. Even had a special metal mesh feeder. We got more goldfinches then, but eventually I ended up with a huge bag of nyger seed going to waste = $$$. The goldfinches just weren’t coming to our garden. No clue as to why. Seed was oily and fresh.
We’ve also had various types of sunflowers planted. It cracks me up that a neighbor reported someone for growing sunflowers. *Unbelievable*. What a farce.
Goldfinches came for the sunflower seed, but then not in recent years. Mostly the squirrels (which we *never* had where I live, up until about four years ago) just ravage the sunflower heads before any of the birds can get to the seed.
About six months ago I spotted two Lesser goldfinches in my front yard. They stuck around for a couple days. They are the first ones I’ve seen in our yard in several years.
Where I walk a local preserve, I recorded just days ago that there are Lesser goldfinches here and there, but certainly not in any flock numbers.
Jeff, your article and this thread has spurred me on to plant Cosmos again in my yard this year. Unlike with Kristy, although my one set of neighbors are a “disaster of epic proportions” in and of themselves, they would never report me for planting sunflowers —– so I am going to get out all my packets and sow various seeds to see what takes. Somehow I will have to figure out how to keep the squirrels from laying waste. Maybe if I plant a superior number of sunflowers . . .
I hope the Cosmos and sunflowers attract goldfinches. We shall see. Thanks for the informative article and I certainly enjoyed learning from others across the US which birds they’re seeing in their gardens.
Hello,
Thank you for reporting in from Santa Barbara and I’m both thrilled that you learned from and enjoyed the article and sorry your having problems with goldfinch numbers around you. Thank you also for the Cosmos plant suggestion. We’ve had a lot of luck with Zinnias and I wrote about it HERE
I have not heard about a global issue facing goldfinches in particular. I do know that they are probably some of the most finicky eaters on the planet. I know you’ve taken care to make sure the seed is fresh, oily and that the feeders are clean so good on you!
I will say if you have problems with squirrels I would NOT plant a huge amount of them. You’re only going to have a larger problem with them. I myself have seen the population of squirrels go from a few to fifteen in the course of TWO days only by feeding something they LOVE. Going back to wildlife feed took the numbers right back down to only residents, no kidding. Squirrels LOVE sunflower seeds so this is something to think about.
I would plant the Cosmos and Zinnias if they both thrive where you live and see what happens.
Please make sure to check back in with us and let us know how it goes in the spring, will you?
Best always,
Jeff
Dear Jeff:
Love the expeditious reply. Thank you. And thank you for the suggestions.
We are in Gardener’s Hell here with this drought. My front yard, in particular, used to be a wonderland of Zinnias, You name it and I planted it: the flashier the better. All heights. Also lots of Cosmos (even Chocolate Cosmos), Marigolds, Dahlias, Gladioli, etc etc . . . A magical place.
Our water bill keeps rising in cost and, as you well know, there’s nothing like rainwater to keep plants happy. Nitrogen and all that good stuff. In recent years, we have admitted defeat, pretty much.. Survival of the fittest rules the day. Native plants, Agaves, succulents, and some very large ceramic pots or 1/2 barrels with veggies and that’s about it. (Cucumbers and Bell peppers rocked this summer.)
Despite your warning, I am going to try the sunflower plantings. Our dog is extremely obedient (so much so that he is **constantly** being complimented on his demeanor) and I am going to allow him now to chase the front yard squirrels (the backyard ones are already fair game). Unfortunately, he isn’t outside all that much after his daily morning miles and miles of running with the bike and then a long Reserve hike. But he and I will still have the energy to fight to protect our sunflowers.
If you have any rain to share out your way, please send it here. Thank you ever so much.
MiTmite9,
I totally understand your wanting to plant the sunflowers. Especially considering your drought situation there. They are extremely hardy plants and will bring you hours and hours of viewing pleasure. With and without birds on them.
Having help from your dog is also a deal-closer!
Jeff
Dear Jeff:
Sunflowers it is.
M
Excellent! Don’t be a stranger!
We did not have 1 golden finch this year & we did have at least a dozen or more. What has happened ? We get lots of the scarlet finch but no golden finch. We live in the eastern part of Ohio. My neighbors are telling me the same thing. No golden finches.
Hello, Janet;
You mean House finches? The ones with red head/breast/rump? I have plenty of those this week, over here in Central CA.
(Scarlet finches are found in the Himalayas.)
MiTmite(
Hi Janet,
Thanks, MiTmite9 for your question to Janet! I honestly did not know scarlet finches are found in the Himalayas and the answer makes a difference. I’ll wait until you respond to weigh in.
Jeff
Hi Jeff. From living on this property, in CT, with my dad 29 years ago, I have been very familar with the constant consistent supply of Goldfinches- they always hung out in the dirtroad. So when we moved next door 18 years ago I put up a finch feeder aprox 40 feet from the dirt road. From that time onward, I have had my lovely Gold Finches 24/7, through all the seasons & brands of Thistle, with the exception of one brand ( dumped it and changed back to a different Thistle- all was well), without fail, until, this year. August 2021 I began to notice a decrease. I had begun using a brand that I used years ago, thought it could be that, so switched back to another usual brand. Thought maybe it was old or a bad bag, so bought another bag. Tried cleaning the feeder. Tried buying a completely new feeder, same type. Nothing- kept decreasing. By October we would see a fleeting glimpse of 1 female. I called our local Audobon Society- they were surprised to hear that we had Gold Finches year round and knew of nothing that could be affecting the population. Dec 16, 2021 we spotted 3 Gold Finches back on the feeder ( I have been dumping the thistle and refilling every week, despite no Gold Finches)- 2 females and 1 male that should have not been so bright yellow for this time of year up here). However, the sightings of them are rare and sporadic. In trying to do my own research, I stumbled on your site with the surprise to hear that others throughout this country, have observed changes as well. So, I wanted to share our findings. I would love to hear any insight or any ideas. I miss them, they were like my pets. I always could count on them being there.
Hi Laura,
Thank you so much for sharing your experience with Goldfinches in CT! And I’m really happy you were able to find our site and see you’re NOT alone.
I too, love those little birds but I’ve got to say I’m as nonplussed as you are about their patterns. The only thing I can say with any certainty is that when they need ME they are here! What I mean is I’ve had the same off and on, sporadic visits as you and many others have had. The difference for me in Tennessee is that now that we’ve been hit by a fairly sudden and deep snow I’m once again MOBBED by them! Go figure! I also believe when the weather changes they’ll stop coming in these numbers.
I’ve really got to give you credit for the lengths you’ve gone for them. Changing food, feeders both repeatedly should have done the trick for sure. I can’t speak to the color brightness your males had in December because even though it was very mild here most of December their color changed like clockwork.
I too have tried to find some help with why this is with no clear answer. Last year, there was a disease problem that affected birds they can feed with which cause oddball migration and disease issues. I know of no such issue this year.
Please keep us in the loop and let me know if things change, will you?
Finally, two questions. Have you tried a clinging-style sunflower chip feeder close to your house? Hands down for me, the Goldfinches prefer it to ANY other food, including thistle. Right now, mine only get on the thistle feeder when my two chip feeders are full. Second, what kind of a winter are you having where you are? About the same or a bit warmer?
Jeff
Hi Jeff, Thanks so much for your reply. Yes, it did help to see we were not alone. Yet,from reading the posts, disturbing to think there might be a greater reason. No, I have not tried a clinging-style sunflower chip feeder on the house. But from reading your advice in some of the posts, I saw those ideas of the upside down finch feeder (which I’m thinking may protect the seed a little more ), the clinging chip feeder/ chickadee feeder , and trying a small bag of the sunflower chips- and I am willing to try all the ideas- and plan to do so. Are you able to send a pic of the clinging-style sunflower chip feeder and a “chickadee feeder”? Are they one and the same? One of the former links you had sent to another poster no longer works. Hmmm, what kind of winter are we having? For NE, we are so used to the constant variables: roller coaster,bouncing from high to low temps, no real good amounts of snow, until today, where we just received 6-8 inches.Because weather is known to be so variable in CT, I guess the best way to sum it up would be to say “a middle of the road” winter so far. The summer was one of the wettest. That is when they began disappearing, in August.
I welcome anymore insight and input you may have. And I will keep you posted as I put the new plans in place.
Laura, from CT
Hi Laura,
The upside-down thistle feeder just helps exclude house finches if it’s not filled all the way. Other than that, I would just try a clinging feeder like the Beck’s Feeder here:
https://www.amazon.com/Becks-BECKSEZB-Feeder-Sunflower-Safflower/dp/B000CZ2K6U/
I believe they also sell these at Wild Birds Unlimited if you have one in your area. I would move kind of quickly though because I noticed this week that Beck’s site was closed down. I know they’ve been trying to sell that business for a while so who knows what will happen to them. I just know my chickadees, titmice, goldfinches and other birds (much less so with the house finches which I was trying to exclude to begin with) LOVE this feeder! I really hope the new owner plans on selling them and NOT just keeping them off the market so they can sell their own junk feeders.
Ourselves, we’ve been all over the place as well this winter so far. 74 on Christmas day and we just got 5-8 inches of snow out of nowhere yesterday. Of course, after being in the 20s today, it’s supposed to warm up tomorrow and even RAIN tomorrow night! What a freakin’ mess that will be.
Can’t wait to hear how you do with the sunflower chips. It may take a couple weeks but make sure it’s close to your house (a window hanger or plant hanger just outside your door is optimal) because starlings and grackles don’t like feeding that close to your house.
Best of luck and let me know if you need any more help. It’s why I do this.
Jeff
Hi Jeff. Thank you so much for all your input. Did you mean to send a pic or a link regarding the” Beck’s Feeder”? I did not see one. I tried searching for one on the WBU site but site reported no results. Are you able to give more details, send a link or pic?
I certainly will keep you posted on the results.
Laura from CT
Hey Laura,
I included a link to the feeder on Amazon but here it is again:
https://www.amazon.com/Becks-BECKSEZB-Feeder-Sunflower-Safflower/dp/B000CZ2K6U/
Hope this helps!
Jeff
I was looking for other SE Michiganders who are backyard feederwatchers and wondered if your feeder has exploded with American goldfinches this winter. I’ve been a Cornell Feederwatcher since early 2000’s and have seen the numbers rise and fall over the years but this year a numerous amount have arrived. Anyone else see a difference this year?
Kathy
I live in Boulder, Colorado and had written in quite some time ago about the fact that I used to have dozens of goldfinch and now I virtually have none, and I haven’t for about two years. I have done all of the appropriate things in terms of feeder cleaning and fresh, oily Nyger. I am trying the Beck’s clinger feeder for a second time with sunflower chips, hanging near the house since I have many RWBL who figure out how to feed quickly even if they’re not clingers. It’s been about a week and still no luck. It’s horrifying to me.
Hi Cara,
Good on you for making the gallant effort to restore goldfinches to your neck of the universe! I’m sorry you’re having so much trouble getting them back but stay positive. It could take a combination of events (hanging the Beck’s feeder for at least two weeks; a severe cold snap) to bring them around again. I’m blessed because mine pay close attention to both. As soon as it turns cold here, like the unusually cold snow we got last week, they mob my two Beck’s feeders. When it warms up they find other places to be. I can’t explain it except to note how incredibly intelligent our birds are.
Please let me know as soon as they return as I know they will! Focus your thoughts on the birds you’ll see and not the disappointment of not seeing them. Sounds woo-woo but trust me it matters!
Jeff
Thanks Jeff. That’s very sweet. I’ll let you know.
Hi Jeff,
Like you had mentioned in other posts, we too, experienced a “big chill” this week, and low and behold, we saw 6 Gold Finches at our (their old haunts) birdbath and thistle feeder. Warmed up today, and now, only 1 was spotted today.
We’ll keep you posted.
Laura from CT
Our first little female showed up this morning feeding with Chipping Sparrows on small bits of sunflower seed and millet in a flat feeder. I’ll add the thistle tomorrow.
I’ve been feeding gold finches for years now in New Jersey and I’ve introduced a few friends to feed sunflower chips last year with great success. However, since late August we have not seen one gold finch. It seems like our state bird has left the state. Is anyone/everyone in NJ having the same problem in 2022?
Thanks, Laura! Look forward to hearing your success!
Jeff
Hi Kenneth,
Let us know how it goes, will you?
Jeff
Hi Harley,
I know here in Nashville that mine go away, as many do in late summer to feast on all the flowers and plants bearing seeds. But not having any back yet is surprising.
Are there any NJ residents who can help here?
Jeff
We live in northeast Ohio & my bird books says that the gold finch go south in the winter so I dont realy expect to see any during the winter, but we did not have one this past summer. Strange
This is for Harley in NJ- I had posted something earlier this Jan reporting the same experience as you. We live in CT & have been feeding our Gold Finches for 18 years throughout all the seasons. Just this past Aug of 2021 they all disappeared. Mid Dec of 2021 we spotted 3 back on their feeder, and throughout this Jan their sightings have become more frequent. Fingers crossed.
NJ isn’t that far away from us and I found it interesting that we had the same experience at the same time.
Laura from CT
Thanks, Laura I saw that. Normally by this point I would have literally hundreds. My feeder would look like a beehive of gold finches. Oddly enough, after posting my message here I spotted my first pair of the year, then I called my friend to tell him, and he saw a pair while we were on the phone. I’m hoping things return to normal soon.
Hi Harley,
So glad you’ve seen some returning! Keep us posted!
Jeff
Hi Laura,
Thanks for joining in and helping Harley. Hoping both of you see a fantastic return of these sweet birds!
Jeff
Hi Janet,
It seems like birds and animals are reacting to the negative energy being put out by humans because of the seemingly endless pandemic.
I grew up in Northeast Ohio (North Olmsted) and was wondering where you were located.
Jeff
I finally have begun seeing a few here in SE Texas. Their attitude is to stand firm against the onslaught of Chipping Sparrows. They don’t give up an inch of feeder space, even to the Cardinals.
I first wrote in this blog quite a long time ago, that I was very concerned about not having seen goldfinches at my feeder here in Boulder Colorado for several years, when we used to have dozens of them. Jeff recommended the Becks feeder with sunflower chips and putting it near a window. I procrastinated. I think I was just very discouraged. I finally did it about 2 weeks ago, Finally, three days ago I had 4 that visited the feeder and then the last two days I have had several that have continued to come. Admittedly they only stay for a short time. Prior to that, I had done all of the things recommended, from constantly filling the feeder with good, fresh, oily Nyger, keeping the feeder clean, etc. Because I am right by the horrible fires of 10 days ago, I am wondering if perhaps I am seeing them in response to the fire. Now I live right next to a wildlife refuge and when I walk over there I have been seeing them for these last couple of years, albeit not in the large numbers as before. So not here, but there. All I can do is continue as I am right now and keep my fingers crossed.
Cara
Hi Cara,
So glad to see you’re having success with your goldfinch numbers! I honestly don’t know how a wildfire affects migratory patterns.
My fingers are also crossed. Keep us in the loop, ok?
Jeff
Hi Kenneth,
For as tiny and dainty as they appear, they are a quarrelsome bunch, aren’t they? Glad your numbers are picking up and wish you continued success.
Jeff
Hallelujah!! After 2 years+ of no goldfinches and trying many different things, I did exactly as prescribed by you, Jeff, with the Beck’s feeder. It took about 10 days for it to be found. Several of them showed up, along with black-capped chickadees. The last week has been increasing numbers, and lo and behold, this morning there are over a dozen. That’s how it used to be. The only issue is how tiny the Beck’s is, so I’m in the process of ordering 2 more. I’ll just line them up outside the window. With columnar Nyger feeder, there could be 15 finches or so at a time. I’ll keep you posted.
where are you living . I have 15 inches of snow outside & my book says the goldfinch go south in the winter?
Hi Jeff
It’s 12 degrees this morning here in south Jersey, Burlington County. The numbers are still low, I’m seeing maybe 6 so far thing morning. In years past I would have dozens at each feeder.
Hi Janet,
I’m just outside Nashville so SouthEast but not deep south.
Jeff
Hi Cara,
So glad you’ve seen an uptick and that I could help with that!
Do keep me posted. It seems, like with Harley, goldfinches are just needing more encouragement to feed this year.
Jeff
Hi Harley,
I would think by now the chips should have brought them back! Here in Nashville my feeders are being mobbed since the cold spell hit a couple days ago and every cold spell so far. When it gets above about 45 they start tapering off. I have no idea what they’re eating then.
Jeff
The house finches and purple finches seem to be fine, in fact their numbers may have increased since last year.
Hey Harley, Laura again, here in CT. We are neck and neck- we saw 7 Gold Finches this am on our thistle feeder (from none Mid August to mid Dec)….Fingers crossed.
Hey Laura with the storm this morning and very cold temps, the numbers are up over a dozen.
Hi Harley,
Before Laura answers I just wanted to pop in and say again that goldfinches have been the toughest for me to figure out. Here in TN, the temps dropping from even 40s to below 20 last night has increased my goldfinch traffic by at least 50%! Where they go and what they eat when they decide it’s really not “that cold” I have no idea.
Jeff
Hey there Harley and Jeff! Laura from CT here!
No the snow storm has not increased our numbers. It has been the same numbers as we’ve seen through the past week. In the early morning is when we see the most- max of 7, then as the day goes on it decreases 4,3,2,1 by the afternoon. Then by 3/4pm there won’t be one out there. That is a different pattern for them as well. They used to be there, dawn to just before dusk. I am just so glad some are back!
Phenomenal though, for you! That the storm has increased your numbers! What a mystery!
Hi Laura,
Glad your numbers have picked up regardless of their odd behavior! My guys and gals are eating me out of house and chips!
Jeff
Just had to say after all these many many many months, that I have about two dozen goldfinches hanging out in the tree near the two sunflower chip feeders coming and going all day. So exciting! Today I’m going to try to add a Nyger feeder near the other 2, to see how they respond. We have snow coming tomorrow and I thought it would be an ideal time.
It seems I’m back to the 6 (3 pairs) I had before the storm. The large flock of blackbirds aren’t helping either.
Cara
My experience has been that they don’t seem to go for the thistle seed this time of year when the sunflower harts are available.
Laura from CT here,
Just wanting to weigh in. I did not get the chance to actually put out the chip feeder with the sunflower chips I purchased, because they had begun showing back up eating the regular thistle I had always put out. Don’t want to rock the boat.
Yesterday we had counted 8 for sure, maybe 9. And we have been having a cold snap following this past snow storm over the w/end.
Hi Cara,
Way to go! So glad to hear of your goldfinch activity!
How did adding the Nyjer feeder go and did the snow increase the numbers even more?
Jeff
Hi Harley,
My experience here is that they’ll ALWAYS choose sunflower chips over Nyjer, regardless of the season.
Jeff
Hi Laura,
Go ahead and put out the chip feeders! You can’t rock the boat when it comes to something they love-LOL!
Let me know how it goes.
Jeff
The AMGO immediately landed on the Nyger as well as the two chip feeders. Standing upstairs looking down and counting goldfinches in the trees, I now have about 30 to 40, and yes the snow is here so I’ve got a particularly good set up and I expect the numbers will go down. For now however, we are all very happy. Thanks Jeff
Hi Cara,
You’ve just put a HUGE smile on my face! So happy it worked for you! It is my honor to have helped in any way.
I’ll be interested to see what happens when the temps go up a bit and the snow melts. Just to see if yours find that black hole that they seem to disappear into when the weather changes-LOL!
Keep us posted and send me a pic if you can of your loaded feeders. help at birdoculars.com
Jeff
We have now begun to get a large supply of American Goldfinch. All the feeders have traffic. For the last several years they have been mostly absent with only a few singles stopping in. What we had as their replacement were the Pine Siskins by the hundreds. This year, so far, not a single Siskin. Just Chipping Sparrows and Goldfinch. Seeing a lot of non-breeding males among the plentiful females. Good to have these colorful cheche birds back!
Hey Kenneth,
This is indeed good news! So happy you’re seeing so many goldies! From what I understand, the Siskins had a major disease outbreak last year which may still be affecting their numbers and their migratory patterns.
Can’t wait for the males to get their breeding plumage back.
Jeff
I started feeding birds last year about this same time. When I first put my feeders out, I had dozens of lesser goldfinches. They came regularly until summer, when they went away. Being that I live in Phoenix, I assumed they go somewhere cooler for the summer, then would return this winter. However, so far this winter, I’ve only seen one a few weeks ago, but none since then. Wondering why I’m not seeing any this winter.
Hi Rona,
Thank you for stopping by and telling us what’s happening in Phoenix!
I’ve just checked the AllAboutBirds listing for Lesser Goldfinches and it appears that Phoenix is nearly right on the line between year-round and breeding season only. This may have something to do with the on again, off again appearance of them where you are. I’ll be interested to hear if things pick up during breeding season.
Do keep me posted, will you?
Jeff
I hope I’m wrong, but I just returned from my visit to the Outdoor Show in Harrisburg PA, where I had a chance to speak with some biologists who were talking about the impact of Avian Flu on the wild turkey population. It has devastated some species including wild turkeys in some areas.
So, this morning I did a search and found this article https://thefinchweekly.com/avian-flu-update-bird-owners/
I can’t help but wonder if this could be the problem in many parts of the country with our little gold friends.
Here is another article:
https://www.lancasterfarming.com/farming/poultry/poultry-farms-should-tighten-biosecurity/article_8c467752-89f0-11ec-bd79-27f8d7485041.html
Hi Harley,
Some more food for thought. Thank you for posting these articles!
Jeff
Hi All,
We were able to count 20 Gold Finch yesterday! Could have been more! And that is still without the chip feeder, just the thistle.
Laura from CT
Hi Laura,
This is INDEED great news! Put up the chip feeder and stand back-LOL!
Jeff
While the numbers are still much lower than last year, I’m seeing an increase this morning. I’m probably up to about 20 to 25 on my 2 sunflower heart feeders
Hi Harley,
So glad to hear this! 20-25 is great and I believe more than I have right now. Keep up the great work and keep us posted, will you?
Jeff
I I was so happy to be able to report in the GBBC that I had 44 AMGO !!! That’s after 2 years of none in my survey!
Hi Cara,
This is INCREDIBLY good news! I’d LOVE to see a pic of your mobbed feeders!
Jeff
I wish I could Jeff. There are usually 10 to 12 on the Nyger feeder and four on each of the two chip feeders since that’s all they can fit around those small dishes. And then there are two trees nearby that are just loaded with them. But it doesn’t allow for a shot of the whole feeding area. Darn!
Any ONE mobbed feeder would be great-LOL! Thank you for thinking of me!
I was just sitting outside on my back steps taking in the beauty and inviting birds to come down and say hi. My little titmice love dropping down right in front of me and picking up a peanut piece. They act like such criminals-HA! The chickadees are a little less bold but still come to a chip feeder I hang about six feet in front of me.
After sitting out there for about thirty minutes, I looked up into the tree nearest me and what did I see? About 20 goldfinches staring at me wondering when I was leaving. It started raining so I let them have their way. THIS time! HA!
Jeff
Sounds like you need to be the one taking photos, titmice and all!! Glad to hear about your AMGO, They’re even hovering!!!
I can’t tell you the relief I feel having them around. I know the sorry state of bird populations, I have seen it everywhere.
I’ll stay in touch.
Cara
Awesome. Today I saw several Lesser Goldfinches and more than several, if you count all I saw over the weekend. Anyone else participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count?
Forgot to add: Location is Central CA, coastal area.
MiTmite9,
That’s great news and thanks for the location update!
I’m sorry to say that while I have done the GBBC in the past, it seems like the dates come and go before I realize it. I’ll make a real effort next year.
Jeff
Hi Cara,
Even though I have access to some really nice equipment (my wife’s), I just enjoy SITTING, BREATHING, WATCHING and LISTENING. I try to make time every day for it. I’ll get more written and photographed this year but that’s where I’m at now.
You obviously DO know how good it made me feel to see and hear them talking to me yesterday. What a thrill!
Thank you for your thoughts and reporting them. I look forward to hearing more soon.
Jeff
Finally, within the last couple of days I’m seeing the numbers I expected 2 months ago. It’s getting very difficult to count them all. At times, I’m sure it’s over 100 finches in my backyard. I’m feeding about 5 pounds of sunflower hearts a day, clearly something has changed. I will soon need another job to feed this crew.
Friends of mine a reporting more finches as well.
Hi Harley,
This is very good news! If you have a PayPal account, I can send you some money for the situation I helped create-LOL!
I am curious if you are feeding the hearts in clinging style feeders or feeders that any bird can get to? 5 lbs/day just sounds like more than goldfinches.
Jeff
Hi Jeff,
I’m using 3 caged cling stile feeders with 1/4-inch wire mesh. I’ve actually rebuilt 2 of these feeders over the last five or six years. There are a few other small birds but, mostly goldfinches. There are some (maybe 5 or 6 pairs) house and purple fiches that have stayed around from last season. Naturally the squirrels are trying their best but get very little. I have to say the gold finches do drop a lot on the ground though.
I’ve been buying my hearts (35lbs bags) at Tractor Supply, but they were out yesterday so I found an Agway feed store where I was able to get a 50lb bag for 80.00 bucks, so we’ll see how long that lasts.
Hi Harley,
That is positively awesome! What a feat of engineering! So glad to hear that the goldies are the biggest customers! And yes, mine keep the juncos, squirrels (and anybody else who’s figured out how picky they are) plenty busy beneath my chip feeders! The mess they make under their nyjer feeders is staggering.
Remind me again, Harley. Where are you located? $16.00/10 lbs is a GREAT price! I think I’m paying about $12.00/5 lbs at Walmart. I had tried a feed store many years ago but the only one convenient to me was more interested in livestock farming than birding and I couldn’t count on them to stock anything consistently. I maybe should revisit that idea.
Jeff
Jeff,
I live in Southern New Jersey, Burlington County.
Here’s the website: https://www.agway.com
They even have a bird watchers club discount coupon when you go over 500 pounds in a season.
Here is the THE FEATHERED FRIEND WILD BIRD FOOD CLUB
https://www.agway.com/loyalty-clubs-wild-bird-food-club
Thanks, Harley!
I’ll have to look into this. I was surprised to see there is one even in my area. I’d never heard of them.
Jeff
Hi guys,
We buy Feathered Friend (safflower seed) from our local Agway here in CT too. We feed it to our other birds.
I have began to very sporadically put out the sunflower chips in a tube feeder where I can control the adjustments of the ports so to make it easier for the Gold Finches to get to the chips. Doing this this way so not to create a squirrel problem so that I can use up these chips because so far, the Gold finches are doing just fine with just the thisle. It is funny though, to watch the squirrels all confused. They go up to the hook and look for where some of the fallen chips are coming from ( and the tube feeder will not be there, because I am very sporadically leaving it out). So then they give up and leave. This way too, they are not making it a habit of checking it out!
Laura
Has anyone tried the spicy bird feed to repel squirrels? I have put it out in small amounts where they can get to it, and it seems to work somewhat. Some of the other birds love it. The finches seem to just leave it alone.
Hi Harley,
We had tried it years ago- and it did nothing to repel the squirrels. The only way we could get the squirrels and house sparrows to leave the feeder alone, was serving Safflower seed. The squirrels naturally leave the thistle feeders alone.
Laura, from CT
Both my front and backyard feeders have spring-loaded perches. If any bird heavier than a Scrub-jay tries to get at the seed —- the weight on the perch shuts off the supply.
That wasn’t enough, though —-didn’t work 100% to keep out the Squirrels. I had to put baffles at top and bottom of feeder poles, too. Finally, that solved the problem. But for House sparrows? No solution for that.
And feeders that I had near hedges or trees —- any base the Squirrels could launch from . . . those feeders had to go.
The “pests” now are Scaly-breasted munia (aka Spice finches). They show up in flocks of 20. Pretty little things. I read somewhere that these Asian Munia got here thanks to people setting them loose as part of wedding celebrations. I’m in SoCal, but read that the Munia are now in Texas and Florida. Guessing these birds will make it over your way someday soon. Not sure if they eat nyjer/thistle, but if they do . . . Uh-oh.
Laura, MiTmite9 and Harley,
In the eighteen plus years I’ve been feeding birds, here’s what I’ve learned (short, short, short version-LOL!),
The ONLY way to keep squirrels from eating your seeds is to do as MiTmite9 has suggested and put up baffles (preferable the long raccoon baffles) and keep them away from any place a squirrel could launch from. I’ve had young squirrels drop over 20 feet onto a metal feeder from above and just hang over the feeder so as not to be affected by the weight sensitive perches. No kidding! Know that if there is a way to get to your seed they WILL figure it out. Trust me on this.
If you enjoy your game of “hide and seek”, Laura, have fun with it. I spend a lot of time taking care of my birdies and squirrels as it is. I’m always looking for a way to reduce that time and increase my sitting time with them. Also, if you’re having success with just thistle right now, keep in mind that will change when things warm up.
Never tried spicy stuff but not surprised it’s not that effective.
Jeff
Hu, wow, never heard of them- Spice Finches. Looked them up, very unique looking.
The Safflower seed solved both our squirrel and House Sparrow problems. Because despite all of our innovations and strategies the squirrels would find a way! And thank goodness they both naturally leave the thistle feeders alone.
Laura from CT
Hi Jeff,
I certainly do not “enjoy” the game of hide and seek, nor the time it takes to do this. However, I do not want another squirrel problem, especially in the only area we have available to dedicate to our Gold Finches. I am just trying to get rid of the sun chips I had purchased as my last ditch effort when we had thought the Gold Finches had left for good. I do not want to supply the sunflower chips on a regular basis if I do not have to, because it only creates problems for us with our particular situation and locations, unwanted birds in that location, and squirrels. Since 2004 when we started feeding the Gold Finches, the thistle has always been enough. Good to know that we can use the sunflower chips if this should change though.
Laura from CT
The reason I asked about the spicy seed is that it does seem to work in my conventional feeders. But as far as I know nobody has spicy sunflower chips. I’d try it if someone did.
Hi Laura,
I’m sorry. I did not mean to imply you would enjoy pranking your squirrels and spending your valuable time doing it-LOL! I realize that each of us has a unique situation and that’s why I try to understand first and then advise.
Back in the day, I can remember being mobbed with only thistle out as well. They’ve tapered off and I noticed that sf chips would bring them when thistle would not. I can totally understand why you’d want to stick with thistle if you can. Squirrels don’t want it and even house finches are not crazy about it. I was not aware that house sparrows didn’t care for safflower though.
Jeff
Hi Harley,
I’m glad you’ve had success with the spicy seed! I’ve not seen spicy sunflower chips either.
Jeff
Hello all,
I wanted to remind you all that I’ve written before a few times on working with squirrels. If you just go to my home page and search for squirrels I think you’ll enjoy the reading. Please comment and share too!
If you’re short on time, check out where it started for me: loving them.
https://www.birdoculars.com/why-i-love-my-squirrels/
Jeff
Jeff
That 5 pounds of SF hearst a day estimate was close. I just opened another 50 pound bag today. It’s hard to believe after such a slow start to the year.
Also, I saw a male today, that had almost all his spring color already.
Hi Harley,
I’ve been seeing the bright yellow poking through the male’s plumage as well. So happy you’ve rebounded from your slow start even if it means literally shoveling sf hearts out your back door-LOL! Oddly, as I’ve mentioned they can be, mine just decided to disappear the last couple days. Very strange because it’s not that warm and has been near freezing at night. Suddenly, both my chip and nyjer feeders are unoccupied by them. I’m sure they’ll be back after they’ve had a good laugh at my expense-HA!
Keep us posted, ok?
Jeff
In the last few days, I’m still seeing plenty of finches however they don’t seem to be eating nearly as much. The temps have been in the upper 60s to low 70s and I’m feeding about half (about 2-2 1/2 pounds of SF hearts a day) of what I did a week ago.
Hi Harley,
That’s the weird thing I’ve observed countless times. How these birds go from ravaging feeders to missing for a day or so is quite beyond me.
You want to hear something else weird? Before the time change, my goldies would start feeding around 7 AM. Guess what time they feed now? That’s right, 7AM! Completely baffles me except that it’s the time that my wife and I enjoy our coffee together and they may just enjoy safely joining us. The chip feeders are literally feet away hanging just outside our back sliding door.
Jeff
You are their protectors. I love it.
I think you’re on to something, MiTmite9! Thank you!
BTW, it’s slightly cooler and rainy this morning and I’m back to being mobbed-LOL! But they were a bit late. Not here until after 8 which WOULD be the old 7, right? The experiment continues…
Jeff
Trying to time most any wildlife is a tuff job, because of predators in the area. I’ve seen hawks foxes and coyotes try to time their prey. Let’s face it, if they only ate at precise times most pray species would be extinct. For small birds though, most can’t go long without eating when it’s very cold, so they take chances and the predators win.
I’ll bet that when finches are waiting to eat first thing in the morning, there is a predator (cat or hawk) close by.
What’s interesting is the goldies almost never flee when everybody else does at the prompting of a blue jay. I think they know they’re quite a bit down the chain of easy and appetizing. A lot of work for very little sustenance-LOL!
I have a hawk that comes by in the afternoons and usually takes a swipe at a dove or two. Are yard is fenced and the cats in the neighborhood understands that means something.
They were back at it again this morning. Bright and early. I just finished refilling the chip feeders before noon!
Just keep in mind, there are many different types of hawks, a Goldfinch may not be on menu for say a Redtail, but there are a few that would consider a Goldfinch a feast. Sharp-Shinned Hawks and Cooper’s Hawks are known for watching bird feeders.
https://outsidetype.com/27-types-of-hawks-with-identifying-images/
Oh yeah. Ours is a Cooper’s and makes daily visits here. There are woods behind my property so they have a way to sneak in. The only thing I’ve seen them get are the sole (and possibly young) mourning doves. You know, the one who seems to be thinking “what’s all the fuss about?” just before they get nabbed?
I live in Iowa City, IA and used to have (prior to 4 years ago) numerous goldfinches stopping by each day at the feeder. I have tried all the different types of goldfinch feed with little success. The goldfinch is the state bird of Iowa. I fear part of the reason for their declines is the use of neonicotinoid pesticides that are used as a seed coating in the upper Midwest as well as for many other purposes. https://abcbirds.org/neonics.
.
Hi Bill,
Welcome and thanks for sharing your wisdom and link. I have no doubt neonics play a role in many bird population declines. I still have trouble wrapping my head around the things many industrialized nations have figured out and stopped before America! I think this is another example of the industrial food complex not willing to sacrifice short-term profits for the health and well-being of man and animal.
I noticed your email is from U of Iowa. What do you do there?
Jeff
I don’t know much about neonicotinoid pesticides, but the price in now over $2.00 a pound for a 50 pound bag at my local supplier. he said “hold on to your wallet it’s going to get worse”. So, I asked why such a sharp increase? His answer surprised me. So I looked it up and sure enough, he was right. Ukraine is the top producer in the world, followed closely Russia.
https://www.atlasbig.com/en-in/countries-by-sunflower-production
This means at about 1/4 of the world’s supply will be cut off by the war. Maybe US farmers can make some of this up.
I’m concerned because myself, a friend and my mother haven’t seen any finches around all season. There are food sources around my house though I don’t feed them myself, however my mother and friend activity feed them and haven’t seen them. We are in mid northern Indiana and have seen other backyard birds per usual. Can you give me some insight as to where they may be?
Jennifer
Hi Jennifer,
A lot of people are seeing changes to their goldfinch traffic. Oddly, mine has been fairly consistent here in Nashville. Have they seen them at all in the past year?
Jeff
The whole picture with birds is frightening. I went for two years without having goldfinches after having many many of them for years prior. No matter what I did, they did not reappear. Finally Jeff suggested that I get a Beck’s clinger feeder to feed sunny chips. I did get one and then I actually changed it out to another type of clinger feeder which I like much better. But regardless, the goldfinches came in droves and during the bad weather here in Boulder Colorado we had this winter, I had well over 40 American goldfinches!! The trick with the feeder is to have it very close to a window so that you do not attract black birds and grackles.
Hi Cara,
I’m so happy to hear I was able to help in any way with your goldfinches! I’d be interested to hear which feeder you went to.
I concur. Although you can hang thistle feeders nearly anywhere (not a lot of interest besides goldfinches) the sunflower chips need to be hung either close to the windows in rooms you frequently spend time in OR with a big bird cage hung around them. I pick close to the home because I love seeing them and I’ve had a house finch actually get caught in one of those cage things and haven’t used it since.
Thanks again for reading and helping others!
Jeff
Songbird essentials clingers only feeder. I sent a photo but I doubt it went through. Slightly bigger, bigger feeding tray and broader cover. Seriously, the AMGO chose that one over Becks.
But the reviews on AMZN are not that good. Becks has the metal central rod and hook. One of the sources pointed to WBU to carry it but I was unable to locate it on WBU web pages. I sent an email to them but have not received an answer yet. WBU is local for me in the Woodlands just north of Houston.
Hi Cara,
I, like Kenneth, looked them up on AMZN. I was wondering if you’ve had any of the problems getting it apart and back together that some people have? My big beef with the Beck’s is that although the metal rod is a more solid construction, taking it apart to clean should be easier than it is. Also, I was wondering if the house finches has as hard a time with it as the Beck’s?
Jeff
Hi Kenneth,
I saw the same reviews you did on AMZN and I’m interested to hear if Cara has had any similar issues with it.
WBU frustrates me because they seem like they want to really have an online store but that would obviously undercut any franchisee. They’ve got to work out a system with IP addresses or something that allows the local store to share in any online sale to somebody near them.
Jeff
I really like the feeder. I got it from the local bird store because I try never to use Amazon. The top doesn’t “screw” off and they don’t include instructions, so the first time I went to fill it, I was stumped. It sort of twists and there are 3 (4?) phalange type projections that fit into notches and when you twist it, it locks. Hard to explain, but if you look at the “roof” and the receptacle, you will see how it fits. I like the larger size, the larger trough with a wider space for them to cling and more shelter from the larger diameter.. Interestingly enough, I needed a second sunchip feeder with the Beck’s so I got this one, and they always gravitated to it.. I took the Beck’s down and got a second of the other type, and everyone seems to be happy.
Thanks for the info, Cara! I had the same reaction when I saw the Clingers picture “How the hell does this thing open?” LOL! I like WBU but unfortunately, mine just moved too far away.
I know how particular goldfinches can be and I look forward to trying one of these out. Does the color matter?
Jeff
Wild bird habitat store in NE is a store i sometimes use for online ordering. They’re great and they put out a very interesting and knowledgeable newsletter. Anyway, I have only used the yellow feeders and so I don’t know that it’s an issue. It’s quite lovely with GOLDfinch.
With the rising cost of sunflower hearts, I’m wondering about mixing hearts and whole seeds (with shells), how well do gold finches handle the whole seeds?
Hi Harley,
In my back yard, I’m actually transitioning from a hearts/nyjer mix towards straight nyjer. Mainly because as soon as the goldfinch feeder gets anything sunflower in it the squirrels take notice. This means it’s got to be on a baffled pole as opposed to just hanging on a two armed crook.
I’ve had some goldfinches visit the whole sunflower feeders but they’re not keen on the house finch competition or the harder seeds.
Jeff
Hi Cara,
I’ll have to give them a try when I order my Clingers Only feeder(s). I have yellow themed upside down nyjer feeders but my chickadee/clinging feeders have always been just green. Was your Beck’s also yellow? It’s just the researcher in me wondering about the effect of color on them.
Jeff
The Beck’s was green, and I’m pretty certain that in this other feeder, it comes in red green and yellow but my bird store has only had yellow.
Thanks, Cara. That’s helpful to know.
I live in south central Indiana. I feed strictly sunflower oilers and have had numerous Goldfinch in the past but this year I haven’t seen but. a few. Is there a decline in this beautiful bird ?
Hi Richard,
As far as I know they are not on the decline. I know they can be fickle in migration but that’s about all.
Jeff
I just received my Becks Chickadee Feeder (clinger feeder) from Cardinal Corner in West St. Paul, Minnesota. Thanks to Jeff for suggesting. Took just 3 days. AMZN was much more expensive with a 10 day wait. Cardinal Corner packaged them very well. I’ll be hanging them just outside my computer room and a large bathroom window under a 4′ overhang. They are so cute and easily come apart for cleaning via the 1/4″ nut on the bottom. Hopefully next Fall we will have the Goldfinch in close proximity to the house. Until then, the Tufted Titmice and Carolina Chickadee, and possibly Brown-headed Nuthatch will enjoy them. Maybe even the Housefinch
Hi Kenneth,
Glad you found a better AMZN alternative! I like to give people a chance to see an item I review but always expect them to shop. The odd thing is that sometimes they have GREAT deals too! I too have shaken my head when I see a listing that’s asking for almost TWICE what others are selling it for! Believe me, the pennies I would make of a purchase would NOT be worth deceiving my readers for.
You should definitely see an increase of goldfinches if you’re feeding sunflower chips from it! In the mean time, who doesn’t love watching Titmice, Chickadees and Nuthatches!
Let us know how it goes, will you?
Jeff
I have always had gold finches here in sw Mn until 2 years ago. They left for the winter and have not seen one since. I’m using the same feeders and type of seed as I always have. My neighbors also have not seen any either. We do have house finches, but no gold. Anyone know why?
Hi there. I totally understand your frustration and I used this blog to help me get back on track. I’m in Boulder Colorado and used to have dozens of goldfinches and then they just stopped, despite all my efforts. This past winter it was recommended that I put out sunflower chips in a “clinger feeder”, which I did and they finally started coming around in very small numbers until by the time bad weather winter happened I was back up to about 40. They have stayed around in small numbers this summer and I have hopes for the coming winter. But believe me. I feel your pain.
Hi Karen & Cara,
I’m so glad I was able to help you, Cara, with your goldfinches! Thank you for your kind words!
Karen, I can’t add anything that Cara hasn’t said already. Sunflower chips in a clinging style feeder that house finches have SOME trouble with should bring them back.
Jeff
I found this site because I am alarmed at the lack of Goldfinchess. For many years, this was one of the most numerous birds in my area of north Alabama. I will say that I did have some back in the spring, but I have not seen them at the feeders in months. Also, not seeing them in the fields the way I used to – but then again, too many folks won’t let the thistle grow up the way it is supposed to do.
So many people keep the wildflowers cut down and unable to go to seed. I find myself staying in a state of distress over how many people seem to completely disregard that our pollinators and birds need the wildflowers and other vegetation. Add to this the fact that Alabama is one of the most brutal states in terms of desolating the roadsides with herbicides and killing anything that grows underneath power lines. It is one of the absolute ugliest of states if you see only the roadside view during spray season – which can seem all year because it takes a long time for the drought brown to go away.
Anyway, really I’m not here to rant but I have suddenly become frantic to know what is happening. After reading thru these posts, I will try sunflower chips in the clinging feeder and see what happens.
Thank you for addressing this subject!!
Hi Elizabeth,
I’m sorry that you’re seeing such a reduction in your goldfinches! Mine have done their late summer/early fall disappearing act but I’m confident they’ll return soon. Actually saw a couple yesterday-YAY!
I wasn’t aware that roadside spraying was still done. Seems like a LOT of money to spend to decimate vegetation when they’d still have to mow anyway. Hmmm.
I hope you can lure them back with the sunflower chips and the chickadee feeder. Remember to hang it close to a window or sliding door because it discourages many larger species from bothering it/them.
Let me know if you don’t see them in the next month or so, will you?
Jeff
Jeff,
Thanks for your. I will let you know if I see any.
Just a week ago, we spotted our first Goldfinch of the winter season here in SE Texas. Yesterday we counted 3, including a very colorful male. Although we have had several feeders up with fresh Thistle and several with sunflower chips, we have only had the Chipping Sparrows all of December and first two weeks of January. No Pine Siskins or Goldfinch.
Hi Kenneth,
Glad to hear from you again! Hope you and yours survived the holidays intact-LOL!
You’re doing everything right and I just don’t get it. I myself am being mobbed by them. I’ve got two chickadee feeders with chips and two upside-down thistle tubes that are full a great bit of the day.
I’m in TN. Don’t know how the warmer weather in TX affects this either. I DO know that my goldfinches nearly disappear every day it’s unseasonably warm if that helps.
Jeff
I’ve seen more in January in years past… but 2023 has been an average year so far for us in south Jersey. I did manage to hang on to a small flock (8 to 10) through the fall for the first time. I’m sure I’ll see more, if we ever get some snow.
Hi Harley,
Good see you back again!
I have a feeling you’ll be getting that snow and see an incredibly uptick in your goldies!
Keep me posted,
Jeff
Hi. Cara here in Boulder reporting. As last winter, I have 40-50 AMGO daily. What’s different this year than last year is that they came much earlier. I also have roosting boxes up around my property and I suspect that they are using them so they are here early. I just love it. The sun chip feeders are definitely the ticket.
Hi Cara,
Welcome back!
Glad you’re having such a great time with your goldies! I’m being mobbed this year too. Every morning I’ve got two chickadee feeders and two upside-down thistle feeders full with a lot of bickering and waiting. Like you, I LOVE it!
I think I told you that you couldn’t go wrong with the chip feeders. Happy it’s worked out so well for you.
BTW, have you had much snow this year? That seems to be something that puts them on high feeder alert.
Jeff
Yes. We have had quite a bit of snow. But I think it’s the cold cold weather that is more influential. Those couple of -10-12° days made them come in droves for the entire day. Yes, you did tell me about the chip feeders and it “changed my life”. ?
I have no doubt the cold is THE driver here. It’s just that when they BOTH come it’s magical! Because I’m in TN and the winters are on again/off again, I get to watch them alternately mob and nearly abandon my feeders on warmer days.
I’m glad you’ve been so successful with those chip feeders and I’ll pat myself on the back right now-LOL!
Enjoy your charm of Goldies!
Jeff
We had a cold snap around Christmas that drew a few in. Some days I’ll have a couple dozen at a time. But you’re right, the snow really brings them in.
Hi Harley,
I’m glad that my observations ring true about snow. I will say mine come and go based on temperature alone too. I’ll have a day that starts out in the 20s or 30s where every port and waiting spot is full. When the temp goes up 15 or so, it’s like they all found something else to do than eating-LOL!
Jeff
Now, 10 days after sighting my first Goldfinch of the winter season, we now have many dozens along with a few Pine Siskins. We sometimes have none anywhere to be seen and with some effort, find the Coopers Hawk nearby. Yesterday, she wat perched on a fencepost only 3 meters from our family room sliding glass door. I watched her twice attempt an attack on a ceramic Chickadee mounted to a feeder.
Hi Kenneth,
Good to hear from you again! Hope all is well.
I too have a Coopers hawk and he/she has been very busy trying to get a meal lately! Believe it or not, I had my FIRST hawk window strike yesterday in 20 years of feeding birds. They were ok and most of the noise came from their incredible bulk. Did not get its target either.
I’m absolutely mobbed as well with goldies! I have never seen a hawk try to attack anything ceramic though-LOL!
I know there’s a LOT of debate about feeding birds just giving hawks a buffet too. I don’t buy it because I’ve seen most of his victims would have been so in the wild. You know that ONE mourning dove that stays on your patio gorging itself after EVERY SINGLE bird has flown away? Yeah, that one. Everybody’s got to eat, right?
Jeff
While I don’t relish having COHA roaming around I love seeing them roaming around. I just have to have the mantra that they too need to eat and are oppprtunistic just like the birds at the feeder. I don’t really see them that much. I have a huge swath of very thick shrubs on my property in which dozens of sparrows house themselves every winter. I see the COHA hovering around there more than my feeders. I have also seen birds utterly freeze for a good 5 minutes if they are inside a caged feeder, head cocked as it was when the COHA appeared. They were not caught. Fascinating.
It has been flat-line cold here near 34° and cloudy for days with predictions similar until late Friday. I stepped out of the back garage door yesterday to refill several feeders. There were no GF anywhere. As I made a few steps, “Bullet” our 3 month resident Sharpie made an adjustment to his position in a 30′ Live oak. So now we have two predators on the hunt – Coop & Bullet. We have never seen the Cooper b4 this year but always have the Sharp-shinned. The fist time I saw Bullet was ~2003. Right in front of me, he dropped from the top of a Sugar Maple, straight down thru the branches. Just below the bottom, he startled a single bright yellow GF into flight. He made one swift turn and poof, yellow feathers erupted.
It is clearly a buffet with near 100 GF, Pine Siskins, and a few Chipping Sparrows feasting on cheechee bird food.
Hi Cara,
Glad you stopped by! Hope the holidays were kind to you and yours.
Looks like I picked the exact time to check in to my blog-LOL!
I hear sparrows chatterings as well but that’s mainly because I have a neighbor that puts out crap seed that attracts ALL the birds I’ve excluded. Thank you, sir-LOL!
I love seeing the hawks too. And you know the reason you don’t see them that much IS by design, right? Because if WE can see them, the birds are LONG gone!
The funny thing in my back yard is that my goldies rarely get to worried about hawks. I have one upside-down thistle feeder pair that both have domes over them so it would be a difficult maneuver to take one there. Like you said though, if the hawk can get them to fly, they’re usually toast.
I’ve also witnessed the freeze and head cock thing. I’ve had downies on a peanut feeder look like they were attached to it for minutes during a scare. Not moving a muscle.
Jeff
Hi again Kenneth,
Coop and Bullet, eh? When I look out my office window at my feeders and there’s nobody, I can bet the Coopers has made himself/herself known!
I think it’s cool that you go back to at least 2003 with your birds too. I started in Feb of 2003.
My favorite afternoon activity? Sitting on my back steps after putting out my home made Zick Dough Improved and watching my now resident bluebird family all come to eat. It’s so cool!
But 100 or more goldies? YOU are blessed!
Jeff
This winter is similar to what we experienced years ago, as over the last 5 or so, we have had only a single one or two GF. One year in recent memory, it was 100% Pine Siskins with a few Chipping Sparrows mixed in but zero GF. They are definitely back this winter, beginning about 2 weeks ago. I hope they hang out until late March as that is when the breeding males get full color. One of the first years (2000) we documented birds, the GF did not completely disappear until late April.
I posted back in October about being alarmed at the lack of Goldfinches. Just wanted to drop in to say that for the past 3 weeks or so that I am seeing an increasing number. Beginning with a couple a few weeks ago to at least 11 today in central Alabama. Also, in north Alabama I am seeing an increasing number – at least 5 or 6 there as of last week. Will be back there tommorow and am interested to see how many.
I was alarmed because they are showing up little to none at feeders during the summer, but maybe they are just changing their behaviour in my area. I am trying to keep feeders cleaned and seed husk piles shoveled up in an effort to reduce disease.
Anyway, to see them today, looks like any usual winter day of a few years back.
Thanks!
Jeff, you mentioned your first hawk window strike. I’ve never seen that. However, very soon we will be getting the first inward migration of Ruby-throated Hummingbirds. We’ve had a rather drab, possibly female Rufous here since early December. I have witnessed several times our Sharpie make attacks on a feeding Ruby in early March during lean GF times. I’m certain some have been caught but have never seen directly the catch. Only the “side of vision” big bird shadow/profile and total disruption of the feeder. Have seen it a couple of time this week on a GF attack at the feeder. Twice, close up on the ceramic Chickadee I mentioned earlier.
I hope they hang out as well. It’s really interesting seeing all these drab goldfinches but I love the breeding colors! Mine usually return for winter and thin out the rest of the year.
Hi Elizabeth,
So happy to hear your goldies are coming back! That’s excellent!
Here in TN, I see almost the exact pattern you are there in AL. I am being mobbed right now and loving it!
Keep up the cleaning and shoveling. Great work!
Jeff
Hi Kenneth,
That’s really odd because I don’t see any attempts by my Coopers to get goldfinches or hummingbirds. Of course, the hummingbird feeders are right outside my back sliding door but during the summer my GF thistle feeders are out in the yard. They both have domes but still. I think I’ve just got too many other more substantial meals than snacks around-LOL!
Jeff
Jeff, please help! In Charleston, WV my neighbor and I are big bird lovers with a problem. The finches are acting like they can’t fly very well. They take off from a branch and flap their wings and can’t get going. The next day we find one dead in the back yard. I took down my finch feeder because I thought it may have a problem and I will clean it with bleach. Just feeding black oiled sunflowers and there are finches but we are losing at least two a week or more. The water is in a chicken feeder that I have an electric heater attached to and I don’t plug it in unless it’s 32 degrees out. I clean it and I put new water in it every few days. It has a reservoir that releases water any time it gets low. My neighbor likened the sick birds to helicopters because they fly and fly and can’t get anywhere. We both have read everything we can find but there are no finch diseases that we know of.
Hi Debra,
You didn’t mention if you’ve seen the crusting and bulging of the eyes but I would take down EVERYTHING NOW because whatever it is bringing them all together is spreading it RAPIDLY! I know it’s hard when it’s cold but believe me you’re helping them by doing this far more than you’d be hurting them by leaving anything up. Even if you’re feeding on the ground, STOP! Anything that causes congestion is a danger now.
Stop feeding and providing water for at least two weeks and see if the helicopters thin out and go away. Even if it’s not eye disease, it’s something that spreading.
Jeff
Also, being in Boulder Colorado, Colorado is having a horrific outbreak of avian bird flu. Tons of water fowl, especially geese are dying and littering the ice on ponds and lakes. The Raptors are eating them and dying. Awful and terribly sad situation. I have not seen it manifest yet in passerined around me but I have heard other reports of that. It impacts birds neurologically and they can act very strange, like a finch acting as a helicopter. There is nothing that can be done. Jeff’s advise would hold true for this as well. Fingers crossed.
Thanks to you Cara and Jeff. We will take everything down. The squirrels are feeding in the bird feeders, too. They also have nothing else to eat.
Hi Debra,
Thanks, Cara for chipping in and backing me!
I’m sorry it’s come to this Debra but that’s where we are.
Just remember the birds found a way to survive when you weren’t feeding them. Same with the squirrels. I know first hand if I stopped feeding my squirrels my back yard would just look like it had gotten a bad case of acne.
Stay strong,
Jeff
Sorry Jeff,
I’m not sure I can follow your logic here. I will admit it’s hard to watch sick birds die, I’m not sure it’s the right thing to do is to cut off their food source either. Most wild birds only live a few seasons anyway. What I can say for sure is, well fed birds tend to resist these outbreaks better than the starving ones. Finding sick birds near a bird feeder in cold snowy winter weather will reflect general the health of the flock and is to some degree normal. Birds gather near food sources (natural or artificial) because that’s what birds do.
Hi Harley,
I appreciate you for stopping by and weighing in!
The only thing that I know for sure is nothing will take down a flock quicker than having them all go at the same food source. I’m not keen on avian flu but I can say for sure that house finches can spread the eye disease to each other and other species before most people even see the one bird with the crusty eyes. And it doesn’t matter how well they’ve been fed either. Allowing the sick birds to disperse (and more than likely, die) is the only way to contain this in your own yard.
I’ve said before that I realize they don’t just disappear into thin air and that they’ll likely go to another feeder. But I also know that they are NOT spreading disease at my feeders.
The two weeks I recommend will not cause the flock to perish. Only resort to the tools they were born with.
Jeff
Jeff
I may have missed this, but are there any lethality numbers with that eye decease that you know of? like what % die from it.
I also didn’t know you said to stop for a short time, I could see that being a helpful thing in certain cases.
I don’t think I’ve ever had a season without some birds dying near my feeders in the coldest part of the winter. The weak will usually stay close to food (in the very cold weather) so as to save energy.
Hi again Harley,
As soon as I hit reply on my reply I thought “I’ll bet he thought I wanted them taken down forever”. Great minds think alike-LOL!
I’ve seen it recommended different places but my personal experience is that two weeks is usually sufficient for the diseased birds to disperse, probably perish and then we can reevaluate by putting out limited offering to see if they’re still around and return. If so, it’s just rinse and repeat.
I did find an excellent article from Cornell’s Project Feederwatch about the disease. I see in one of the paragraphs they mention some birds don’t die which increases the chance of THEM spreading it. I don’t have a percentage but I know it’s very high. Here’s the article.
It should answer a lot of your questions.
Jeff
Jeff
Since my last post I’ve been doing some reading and the article Cornell was one of them. I did find some things that can throw a wrench into things. like this from Wikipedia: “Once infected, they are carriers for the disease for life. Some birds have good resistance to the disease while others may die; some become ill and recover and others may not show any symptoms at all.”
I’m thinking “it” (like covid in humans) is probably endemic in the wild by now. Wouldn’t most of the wild population be exposed already by now?
Hi Jeff
A friend recommended this article. https://extension.psu.edu/house-finch-conjunctivitis
Some of my concerns are talked about in that article.
Much of the study done in the 90s was done just a few miles from my home here in NJ and I must say
the finches here are doing well.
Hi Harley,
Sorry for the late response. Had a Google Drive meltdown yesterday-LOL!
I appreciate the research you’ve done and have read it. I only know from my 20 years of bird feeding that by the time most people notice the disease, it is tearing through their back yards. The ONLY way I have ever gotten so I could feed birds again is to stop feeding for a couple weeks, clean all the feeders and start feeding again on a limited basis. All of my house finches here were also healthy BEFORE it struck.
I have no experience with it being endemic. I will say if people are seeing sick birds at their feeders and continue doing so, they’ll soon have an unfortunately large sample size if they are qualified to evaluate it.
Obviously, you have full control over what happens in YOUR back yard. For me, I’ll continue taking down feeders at the first sign of the disease.
Jeff
That’s just it. I have no control over what comes into my backyard… even if I stop feeding. I think it’s safe to assume that even if all of the birds APPEAR healthy, there will be at least 10%-15% (according to studies) probably more during the winter, that carry this disease.
Hi Harley,
I think we’re just going to have to, as they say, “Agree to disagree”-LOL!
You don’t have control over what comes into your back yard but you DO have control over where and how they congregate. How birds appear is not really at issue. If I’m seeing ONE bird with the eye disease I KNOW there’s already more that have it.I can cut down on how many more get it (and potentially die from it) by taking down my feeders for a couple of weeks and then reassessing.
Every time I’ve had to do it, it kills me! Make no mistake. But I know I am helping them by doing so. Any time I’ve balked at taking them down MANY more get infected.
There are studies and opinions on both sides of this issue, as you well know. But it’s just like is feeding them bad or good for them? It’s divisive. We’ve just found ourselves in different quadrants of belief here.
Jeff
Kinda like a super spreader. The more people, the more exposure.
Hi Cara,
That’s really all I’m saying.
Jeff
Hello, everyone:
We’re seeing more and more Goldfinches here in Santa Barbara, CA. Lesser Goldfinches. I’m participating in the Great Backyard Bird Count (anyone else?) and was able to see quite a few Goldfinches yesterday. Mostly they were feeding on Willow catkins (flowering parts of tree). The location I was cataloging birds is a 2-mile long tract of land paralleling a creek. We got some good rain (finally!) about a month ago, so the creek (still VERY low) has some water.
Every recording I got had a Goldfinch or two calling out. So lovely to hear them again.
Hi MiTmite9,
Good to hear from you again! Really glad to hear of your successes with the goldfinches and that you finally got some rain!
Around here in TN, the weather has been up and down. Oddly, I can predict my goldfinch mob thinning out on days it’s warm but they’re ALL back as soon as it dips below 50.
I know their singing and calls can be absolutely calming and mesmerizing. I just love those little birds!
Have you noticed if the males there are starting to take on their breeding colors? I’m seeing a tad of bright yellow streaks on mine.
Jeff
Dear Jeff and All:
The adult male Lesser Goldfinches I spotted were all wonderfully bright yellow w/ their striking black caps. Even the females had splashes of yellow. It was so fun to see them in amongst the willows. They sure are busy little bodies.
I catch a glimpse of a full blown male every day or so. We usually do not start spotting them until March.
Yes I know Jeff. Just felt the need to underscore with a phrase we are all too familiar with these days.
Jeff and Cara
The research says we are WAY PAST the super spreader stage, by like…30 years.
Hi MiTmite9,
Wow! That’s really cool!
Do your other Goldfinches sport their breeding colors yet?
Jeff
Hi Harley,
The research also says we’re way past the flu. Forget about variants. People still get flu shots because they think it’s the least they can do.
I’ve heard arguments on both sides about the eye disease. I only know early in my bird feeding life, before I had even heard of the disease, I had a back yard full of sick birds before I knew what was happening. Since then, I’ve always taken steps to reduce crowding and take down feeders at the FIRST sign of infection. I’ll never forget how bad I felt when I realized I had played a part in all of that!
I also believe what I do makes a difference in my little neck of the woods which I also believe expands if unaddressed.
Cara and I were not ganging up on you. I’m pretty certain I’ll never convince you that taking down feeders is the right thing to do. I only know I’ve read just as much research that says it DOES make a difference. The choice will always be yours and I understand that.
Jeff
Hi Kenneth,
That’s usually the time we start here too. Remind me, Kenneth. Where are you located again?
Jeff
SE Texas Lake Conroe
I cannot remember the last time I spotted an American Goldfinch here in Santa Barbara. No idea if there are any around right now. But did receive this alarming news yesterday re: Avian Bird flu:
https://www.independent.com/2023/02/17/wild-birds-with-avian-flu-found-in-santa-barbara-county/
Hi Kenneth,
Got it! My brother lives just outside of Houston.
Jeff
Hi MiTmite9,
Sounds like something livestock owners/breeders need to keep an eye on. Thanks for sharing!
Jeff
I live in S.E. CT and haven’t my finches for quite a while. I’m using the same Niger seed from the same feed store I’ve been going to forever. I have no idea why. I hope they’re okay.
Hi John,
Does your goldfinch traffic usually pick up quite a bit in winter there? Here in TN we’ve had on and off cold and I swear every time the temps go above 50 all my back yard visitors stop worrying about food-LOL!
Jeff
Cara here in Boulder, Colorado. After they were gone for two years, they came back in full force the year before last during the winter. I have at least 50 now. The sun chip feeder was the draw, but they go for nyger now too. If you haven’t tried that I would sure suggest it, in a clinger feeder.
Our Goldfinch are intermittent year by year. Usually show up by January here in SE Texas. The Chipping Sparrows are already here, normally followed by the Goldfinch and Siskins.
I live in North salt lake UT . I haven’t seen any goldfinches for weeks . Where have all the goldfinches gone.
Hi Aidan,
Has your weather been unseasonably warm? That’s the one thing that’s constant here in TN. When it gets cooler or cold they flock. When it’s warm they’re just not that “worried” about eating.
Jeff
Hi Cara,
Good to hear from you again! Do I recall (tooting his own horn-LOL) that my sunflower chip/clinger feeder suggestion brought them back?
Great to hear they’re eating you out of house and home. Or castle and home. Or…well, you get the picture-LOL!
Jeff
Hi Kenneth,
Good to hear from you again!
How are they doing this year so far?
Jeff
Hope you’re doing well. We’re seeing them onesys and twosys. Eating chips. Will put out Thistle soon.
Oh, you bet. I didn’t go into the long story of it to shorten the process, but you absolutely were the one who got me back on the goldfinch train. Yeah!!
I have been feeding thistle for a month or so with no luck here in WV. What is the chips you’re talking about, peanut pieces?
Small sunflower chips. They do love them as well as Chickadees, Titmice and Warblers. Use a Clinger feeder
Hi Kenneth,
All good! Hope you and yours are the same.
Perfect sequence! Get them to flock with the chips and then offer their second favorite treat.
Jeff
Hi Cara,
I believe you just made my day! So glad I was able to help even if I couldn’t contain my pride-LOL!
Jeff
Hi Debra,
Kenneth dialed you right in! I would add not all “chips” are created equal. If you can, look for those that are NOT whole, hulled sunflower seeds. The ones that are truly chips have been broken down a bit so they’re smaller and easier for the goldies to eat.
And by clinger feeder Kenneth means something like the Beck’s chickadee feeder. Google it.
Jeff
I have been reading comments here and appreciated the shared information. I also am experiencing some of the same things. For example, I rarely see golden or red finches any longer in my backyard and used to have many. For the last two years, I literally have not seen one yellow finch.. I live in Southern Ontario along Lake Huron area. I am very committed to the environment and earth, especially wildlife, such as butterflies and insects and of course wild animals. I work hard to ensure our native plants are supported and that poisons are not used. I solve things organically. Looking forward to sharing ideas and learning.
Hi Lucinda,
Greetings to you in Southern Ontario!
The first thing I need to ask is what have you been feeding them up to this point? The goldfinches have been hit or miss it seems across the US and Canada.
I’m in Tennessee in the US and right now I’m being mobbed at my sunflower clinger (chickadee) feeders.
The funny things about birds here is they seem to be very focused on temperatures. Whenever the temps rise near and above 50 F, feeding tapers off across my backyard. Like a good part of the US, we are now under a winter storm watch. Even if the snow doesn’t really amount to much I’m sure I’ll get mobbed more because of the freezing temps.
Jeff
It gladdens my heart immensely to know that there are others out there who eschew any and all use of toxins in home and garden. Our property has been pesticide-free for 50+ years. The garden, due to years of drought, has become survival of the fittest — for the most part. Not using pesticides sure makes for happier, healthier critter life. We have loads of birds and lizards and honeybees. Not as many butterflies as in the past, but we still see different species stopping by.
We also harvest the most wonderful bell peppers, cucumbers, zucchini, tomatoes —- all organic. The taste . . . heavenly.
When we used to grow Cosmos, Lesser Goldfinches would come to harvest the seeds. Thank you for reminding me that we need to plant Cosmos again.
**Thank you** for being a wise and caring gardener, O Kindred Spirit.
This is Ron, I am new to this site. Here in Northern Indiana, I have 3 feeders in my front yard and have had many
gold and red finches flock to my feeders in the cold weather. In the last few days when the weather has warmed to 40 degrees, I noticed that the finches are not flocking back to my feeders. Is this normal and will I see their visits taper off as spring returns? Thank you.
My Goldfinch finally arrived a few weeks ago. Followed shortly by the Pine Siskins. Interestingly, the Chipping Sparrows beat the Goldfinch by a couple weeks.
Hi Ron and welcome to BirdOculars!
One of the things that’s always amused me is the pattern you are speaking of. For me, warming up usually brings a slowdown in overall feeder activity. But I will say the goldfinches seem especially fickle like this. I’m in Nashville, TN and last week when we had that unbelievably cold and snowy weather I was being bombarded by everything including goldfinches.
This week, as it’s warmed up and melted away, I have no trouble keeping my chip feeders full. Whereas last week, I had to fill them twice a day! So the short answer (finally-whew-LOL!) is that it IS perfectly normal what you’re experiencing.
As far as the spring and summer, it’s anybody’s guess. I know late summer, when everything has gone to seed, it tapers off again but not for very long.
Hope this helps you feel better about what’s going on in your neck of the woods.
Do let us know how this goes going forward, will you?
Jeff
Thanks, I really enjoy feeding the birds and watching their habits. I have identified more than 15 species that have visited our feeders this fall and winter. I especially enjoy the chickadees, tufted titmouses, red bellied woodpeckers , white breatsed nuthatches, and the finches. I try real hard to keep the feeders dry and fresh.
For the past few years, here in Central CA, my back yard feeder has been swamped with Scaly-breasted munia (aka Spice finches). Sometimes I despair at witnessing 30 munia at a time gobbling up all of the costly proso millet and black oil sunflower seed.
One service they do provide is they often knock some of the seed to the ground and that makes the Mourning doves and Towhees (and chipmunks and squirrels) and other ground feeders happy.
Every great once in a while, though, I see a bird at the feeder —– a bird I have never seen before in my yard. One time it was a White-winged dove. They are a bird that is “of least concern,” in so far as possilby being endangered, but —- it was the first and only sighting I’ve ever had of a White-winged dove in my yard.
There are White-breasted nuthatches that visit, but it is not a daily or common occurrence. I hear them calling, but rarely see them swoop down to the feeder. Two weeks ago, I looked out my back window to see a Red-breasted nuthatch at the back feeder. It was thrilling. I have never EVER seen a Red-breasted nuthatch in my yard or anywhere near my neighborhood. I think it was my first sighting of a Red-breasted nuthatch, period.
I hope those of you concerned about Goldfinches have no cause to worry. Maybe the drop in numbers is all part of a cycle. One thing I do know for certain is —- even though I am not happy about feeding loads of non-native Scaly-breasted munia, I will keep my feeders and birdbaths filled . . . There is always the hope that I may spot yet another unusual visitor to my feeder. It’s a great feeling, knowing I may be helping some wayward migratory birds enjoy a good, healthy meal or two.
Good for you, Ron! I know maintaining safe feeders can be a real challenge too! Pat yourself on the back for caring enough to consider that important!
Hi MiTmite9,
Welcome back!
You’ve got the perfect mindset for feeding birds! Congratulate yourself!
I too have White-breasted nuthatches and they concentrate on my Squirrel Buster peanut feeder. They are very easy to miss because they’ve very sneaky and their vocalizations are not exactly ground shaking-LOL! Brr…Brr..Brr is the closest I can come. I’ve also seen migratory and had some around for a season with the Red-breasted variety.
I’m sure the goldfinches are just cyclic and funny about their feeding habits too.
Keep feeding all of them and you WILL discover birds you’ve never seen before if you keep looking for them. Looking for them is the one practice not enough bird feeding humans do enough of. I spend 30 or so minutes with my favorite beverage just watching them on my back step. It’s VERY amusing, calming and exciting all at the same time.
Jeff
Thank you, Jeff. We keep our front and back yards pretty wild, so that helps. Lots of bird baths + a couple feeders. Every great once in a while, one or two people ambling past our property will call up to me, as I’m out playing in our garden (we live on the side of a hill, sort of): —- “You have *so many* birds!” One time a guy said, “Every bird in the neighborhood is here in your yard.” Hahaha.
Yeah. We try.
You’ve just made my day! Thanks!
My neighbors probably just think I’m insane but I love all of them (yes, grackles and starlings too-LOL!) and wouldn’t trade my back yard for anybody’s in the neighborhood.
Kindred spirits. Yes. We are a “No Kill” and pesticide-free refuge. The only creatures we do not welcome onto our property are neighbors’ killer cats. The dog is allowed to chase said cats, but only in the back yard. Chasing out front is NOT allowed, due to fact that dog might think it’s okay to continue the chase out into the street.
Out front all the cats get is a big loud “Hissssss!” and they know to book it on outta here. Hooray to us all, for providing sanctuary, food and shelter for our Fellow Earthlings.
Our back yard is wooden fenced and only a rare cat has wandered in. An experience they don’t seem to forget-LOL! Like you, no harm comes to them but I DO understand the training aspect of not being accepted in a new space.
Jeff, Here in Northern Indiana I have daily visits by dozens of birds including many cute gold finches. They love a steady diet of crushed unsalted peanuts and sun flower hearts. Many robins have braved the winter cold and feast on dried fruits of small flowering trees. Woodpeckers and titmouses are also fun to watch as they grab and go. We’re looking forward to spring and the return of migrators.
Hey Ron,
I too am looking forward to the migrators! Although I will miss my sweet little dark eyed juncos and white throated sparrows.
Jeff
I live in southern Alberta 90km south west of Lethbridge. In the past 4 years have only seen 4 to 6 goldfinches migrate through. I put out their favourite seed every spring. There used to be lots accompanied with pine siskins. So far this year only 2.
Hi Marlene,
I don’t know what would cause the decrease in migrators like you’ve seen. My observations here in TN-USA are that goldfinches can be one of the most finicky birds ever. Like I’ll be getting mobbed until the temps here break 50-60 and then they thin out for a while. Then return at some point. Right now, I’ve only seen about two or three max but I also believe these Cicadas are disrupting all lifeforms.
I hope you see a pick up of your numbers soon.
Jeff
We’ve had really crazy weather here. Just before we has a hail shower, and we’ve had more snow than usual this month. Like i said goldfinched just migrate thru here but very few in last few years. We used to get lots. Even the pine siskins are fewer. You can check out my blog which is mostly photos of our wildlife including birds at http://www.lifeon12acres.com. We had lots of juncos March and April.
This winter have only spotted 2 American Goldfinch. Hundreds of Pine Siskins which are still hanging out in SE Texas and have kept all the feeders busy.
Kenneth Drake
Hi Kenneth,
Wow! Hundreds of Pine Siskins? That’s great! Sorry about your goldies. Do you normally have a lot during the winter?
Jeff
Hi Marlene,
Very nice site and great work! April is usually when my Juncos start clearing out. This year, I had both them and my White-Throated Sparrows hanging around longer. Probably because the warm weather has taken it’s time getting here this year.
Jeff
Just thought that I would weigh in on the Gold Finches. Here in No. Indiana I have plenty of the beautiful Finches. My secret is a home made flat feeder with a daily diet of sunflower hearts. They are here every day. Good luck to all.
For the first time I’ve probably had as many Pine Siskins as I’ve had Goldies this year. I’m not sure if it’s because I’m supplementing the sunflower hearts with thistle,… on some days they actually seem to prefer thistle.
Hi Ron,
Good to hear from you again!
Glad your numbers are so good and yes, sunflower hearts or chips drive them crazy!
Do you have many house finches? That’s been my biggest problem is they are learning how to use the chickadee chip feeder I use and it’s off-putting for the goldies at times.
Jeff
Hi Harley,
Without making me scroll back through thousands of comments, could you tell me where you are again?
My goldies only eat thistle when they have to. Like when I have the chip feeder down or there are so many they can’t get any chips so they “settle” for thistle-LOL!
Jeff
I live in Burlington County NJ. My goldies settle for thistle, but the pine siskins on some days seem to prefer it. I was surprised to see a few Red Poles this year back when it was cold for a few days
Some days my Siskins are all over the Thistle. Other days don’t touch it. Strange birds
LOL! My goldies can be like that with the chips and temps as I’ve mentioned, I think.
Jef
Hi Jeff, We do have many red glowing House Finches here. They also enjoy the sunflower seeds and sunflower chips too. Since the fall and winter season is gone, we have not seen any chickadees at our feeders. Don’t know why, sure do miss the cute birds. Male and female Rose breasted Grosebeaks visit here very often. I have been trying hard to get orioles to visit here. A few successes, but would like to have more visits. I enjoy all the birds and try to make them all frequent visitors.
Orioles want fresh oranges. Works for us all spring
Please don’t tell the Hooded orioles that my oranges are nearly ripe. It is taking forever for the fruit to ripen. (Gray weather.)
Santa Barbara, CA reporting in. I have seen Black-headed grosbeaks at my backyard feeder (proso millet and black oil sunflower seed). Juvenile males and adult males, They’re back. Hooray.
And LOADS of “red glowing” House finches. Plus their female counterparts. Everyone jockeys for position on the one feeder out back. The Scaly-breasted munias (aka Spice finches) are eating us out of house and home. Sometimes we see 20+ at a time.. Only one mated pair of Mourning doves.
No Goldfinches, but I thought I saw a Ruby-crowned kinglet a few days ago. The Red-shouldered hawks that were nesting in our 80′ tall Eucalyptus city street tree (first time EVER nesting there) successfully hatched out a couple chicks. We saw parents and young soaring overhead a few weeks ago, but all is quiet now.
Socked in deep overcast every. single. day. Truly amazing sunless skies. Birds don’t seem to mind.
Hey MiTmite9,
WOW! I’m assuming you have your bird seed delivered by dump truck-LOL!
Way to go!
Jeff
Hey Kenneth,
Orioles are one bird that’s still not been in my back yard.
Jeff
Hi Ron,
You’ve got a great attitude towards your feeding. It that doesn’t work, try this will get you where you need to be.
I would miss our chickadees if they left us too. Hope they return for you.
I get a pair of those grosbeaks in the fall and spring that load up on seed like the hummingbirds do on nectar. Then, after a couple weeks, they’re gone.
Jeff
Many’s the time I have cautioned people about installing bird feeders. I don’t talk about the mess or how the seed falling under the feeders may attract rats, chipmunks, squirrels. What I do tell people is that, as a hobby —– bird feeding ain’t cheap. And yes, we lug our bird seed up the hill in 50-lb bags.
As for attracting orioles. My suggestion is to plant Strelitzia nicolae. The giant “Bird of Paradise.” Orioles (at least the Hooded ones, for sure) love nesting in those Banana-like plants.
Hi MiTmite9,
You are absolutely correct to caution people. The time and financial commitment to make sure you’re doing it right and helping, not hurting, the birds you serve is way more than most people realize!
I’m a little worried right now because birding and bird feeding have absolutely exploded with many online sources saying bird feeding and watching is great for you and as easy as putting up a feeder-WRONG!
If a person new to the craft is not willing to keep things clean and tidy and feed high quality (not the $3.00/20 lbs crap) then it’s already a doomed pursuit. I take my commitment to all living things to seriously to even pretend it’s an easy hobby.
Thank you for your Orioles gardening suggestion.
Jeff
Hi Terry, here. My Oreos in our backyard love grape jelly. I start out by putting Out an orange cut in half and then bring on grape jelly in little dishes have gone through five jars this summer. They also like my hummingbird feeders. But this summer, I missing my goldfinches in early May I had about 100 at a time then they disappeared and now only see one or two a week. I have many gross peaks and woodpeckers. I am so blessed.
Hi Terry,
Sounds like you ARE truly blessed!
The goldfinches are funny that way. I’ve had my numbers go up and down so much it feels like a roller coaster-LOL!
Great work!
Jeff
Itoo live in Northern WV two yrs ago a flock of20 to 30 Goldfinch were here all summer to fall along with fk of 30 to 40 little brown sparrows singing in bushes now both are gone not a one I really miss them also very few Robin’s
Hi Roseann,
I know the goldfinches can be on again, off again at times. Still, I’m sorry you’re seeing the drop you’ve experienced. If you are feeding sunflower chips from a clinging-style (google chickadee feeder) feeder, your goldfinches WILL return when it gets colder. I promise.
Every year, when I swap out my chickadee feeders hanging right outside my back door for hummingbird feeders, my goldfinches cut way back. I’ll be putting my chip feeders out very soon as our hummingbirds seem to have disappeared.
And every year they come back in droves.
Let us know how you make out with that.
Jeff
Well Jeff, another summer and fall season is coming to a close and my winter birds are flocking to the feeders. I have learned that most birds love the sunflower hearts and ground up nuts. They are a bit more expensive, but with no shells, they seem to go farther and dont leave the shell mess on the ground or front porch. I had some beautiful bright yellow goldfinches this summer at our feeders. The fall feather molting makes most of our goldfinches look very simular. And, we get dozens returning to our feeders now. I make it a morning ritual to keep the feeders full and enjoy watching them out of our front windows. I hope that others enjoy the birds like I do. Have a great winter eveyone!!!!
Santa Barbara reporting in, All I’m getting is House Sparrows, House Finches, Scaly-Breasted Munia (aka Spice Finches), a few Mourning Doves (off and on) and so on. I think I spied a lone Lesser Goldfinch in my front yard and that was over a month ago.
The Spice Finches are eating me out of house and home: black oil sunflower seed/proso millet is all we have on offer, with feeders in front and back yards. We also have many birdbaths, front and back.
Wishing everyone a Happy Autumn. Hope you all enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Hi Ron,
Sounds like you’ve had a magical time this summer and continuing into the fall! Excellent!
My wife and I also love to use patio mix and just watch them in the morning and sit with them in the afternoon. It’s amazing how comfortable even cardinals can become with humans. Of course, making sure nobody gets TOO comfortable because, as we know, not all humans mean them well.
Make sure and check in again as the winter progresses for you.
Right now, my biggest challenge is I want to put out our chickadee chip feeders for the goldies and others. However, we’ve been a little too kind to the squirrels and the young ones are climbing windows. Our yearly, window-fed bluebird offerings are no longer safe. The same is true for the potential chip feeders. Sure, I can just put them out on the pole system in our yard but where’s the fun in that? Our chip feeders usually hang right outside the back door and we can watch them up close.
We’ll have to figure something out.
Jeff
Hello again, MiTmite9!
I would love to see a pic of your front and back yard feeder setups!
Are all of these what you normally see at this time of year in Santa Barbara?
Jeff
No clue how to add photos here. Please advise on that. We live in an area which has suffered severe drought for nearly a decade, so please don’t expect to see much greenery or anything resembling a manicured set up when it comes to our feeders/birdbaths. We do have some fruit trees in the back yard, the favorite of the birds, for perching/hiding is the Pomegranate.
Aside from the birds I mentioned previously:
Occasionally at our feeders we see also White-Breasted Nuthatches, Black-headed Grosbeaks, Bewick’s Wrens, Acorn Woodpeckers and Scrub Jays. The Titmouses are daily visitors. My favorite are the Spotted Towhees. We have California Towhees, too, but not as many this year. We used to have a lot of Band-tailed Pigeons, but only see them rarely now and not in a flock.
I once saw a White-winged Dove feeding under our back yard feeder. I have spotted a Sharp-shinned Hawk and a Cooper’s Hawk in our yard, but not recently. We used to get flocks of Cedar Waxwings feeding on our Pineapple Guava blossoms, but that was years ago. There are Northern Mockingbirds that only come to our front yard, and they never use the feeders. Red-shouldered Hawks nested and raised young in our front street tree (a gigantic Eucalyptus robusta aka “Swamp Mahogany,’ approx 80′ tall)— for the very first time — this year.
We heard Hooded Orioles, but only saw them a couple times this spring,
Crows come for shelled (not in shell) peanuts. We hear Great-horned Owls and Barn Owls at night.
There seems to be a lot less Hummingbird activity this year, less than normal. In the past, we’ve seen several Allen’s and Annas Hummingbirds at our Echium ‘Pride of Madeira’ and feeding at our native Zauschneria californica (native fuchsia). There were still some Hummingbirds, but not as many, i.e. We don’t have a Hummingbird feeder.
I know I’m forgetting some of the species that come here.
Our yard is exceptionally “wild” compared to any other yards in our neighborhood. Wild compared to just about any yard within an enormous radius. My one housemate says “We’re the hippies.” No pesticides, all organic. Plenty of insect life. Less Spiders than usual. Lots of Chipmunks, Squirrels, Lizards and Butterfly visitors. Sometimes we see Brush rabbits, but none in recent months..
Oops. Yes. In my first post those Sparrows and Finches are what we normally see at this time of year. Plus some of the other birds I mentioned in my lengthy 2nd post.
Hi MiTmite9,
For starters, you can just attach the pics to an email and send it to help@birdoculars.com. Easy Peazy! This is not a Better Homes and Gardens contest, either-LOL! I really just want to see and feel the energy that you’re surrounded by on a daily basis. You’ve got an incredible variety of visitors and I can see why you care so deeply about them.
And the “hippies” had a LOT of stuff right, didn’t they? Even this many years later!
Jeff
Sending pics soon.
After being mostly absent for the last 5+ years, they have come back by the hundreds. Not sure where they have been as we have only seen them by the half dozen until about a week ago. They are storming any Sunflower chip feeder we’ve got up. Including two Clinger feeders. Maybe going thru ~5#/day. Also taking a bit of fresh Thistle.
The odd thing is that we also have what look like Ruby-throated hummers still at the feeders. We have decided to leave them up as the Rufus generally show up in December. Several days it has gotten down to 25°F and the little beauties show up every morning at 3 different feeders.
Wonderful news about the Goldfinches. ***Thank you for feeding them so well.***
And the Hummingbirds as well. I had no idea they could even be out and about in such cold temps.
About the Rufous Hummingbirds — are you sure they’re Rufous? I thought we (here in Santa Barbara, CA) had Rufous coming to our Echium but turns out they’re all Allen’s.
We are overloaded with Goldfinch finally. But the Hummers all appear to be Ruby-throated which normally, by late October, are mostly gone. My suspicion is that some of the 1st year Rubies did not migrate to Mexico because our good food source remained. We leave them up for the Rufus which we see every year in small numbers. I had been warned not to leave the feeders up.
Hey Kenneth,
Welcome back and I’m really glad to hear about your goldies! Mine are generally hit or miss during the spring, summer and most of the fall. Now that we’ve had cold and this snow storm they are mobbing my feeders as well. I should also mention that I don’t put out chips all year because I have hummer feeders where their chip feeders are now. Otherwise, I might have more in the other months as well. Still, I do give them a clean source of nyjer seed in their own upside-down feeders that they are very adept at using.
Where did you say you were again?
Jeff
Hi MiTmite9,
I too was surprised to hear of hummers this late. Ours here in TN are also gone by mid to late October.
Jeff
Hi Kenneth,
I’m blown away that you still have Ruby-throateds!
I’ve heard the argument about feeding them too late that makes them stay but I don’t buy it. They have their own intelligence and if they choose not to go, they have their reasons.
Keep doing EXACTLY what you’re doing. They LOVE you for it! Trust me!
Jeff
Jeff, we are north side of Lake Conroe (SE Texas). I’ve generally been leary of leaving them up from Nov. 1 until Jan 1. Then put them back up for our sparse Rufus population we get in winter. First year we have had the little beauties hang here after end of October.
Jeff, I use socks and dedicated Nyjer feeders but don’t know what an upside down feeder is.
Hi Kenneth,
Thanks for the update on your location. I know I could scroll and scroll and find it but, you know? LOL!
Here is an example of the two thistle feeders I have. I have a LOT of house finches and most of them can’t do this. I sometimes have to fill it below half because some of the house finches figure out they can stand on a perch and get seed ABOVE them-LOL!
Of course, chickadees and wrens have no problem with it.
Jeff