
Feeder birds
American Goldfinch
Spinus tristis
The American goldfinch is a small North American bird in the finch family. It is migratory, ranging from mid-Alberta to North Carolina during the breeding season, and from just south of the Canada–United States border to Mexico during the winter.
Small finch; breeding males are lemon yellow with a black cap and black wings.
- Scientific name
- Spinus tristis
- Group
- Feeder birds
- Main color
- Yellow
- Conservation (IUCN)
- Least concern
Size and shape
The American goldfinch is a small finch, 11–14 cm (4.3–5.5 in) long, with a wingspan of 19–22 cm (7.5–8.7 in).
Diet
The American goldfinch is a diurnal feeder.
Range and habitat
It may also be found in open deciduous and riparian woodlands and areas of secondary growth.
Lifespan
The oldest known American goldfinch was 10 years and 5 months old.
Voice
The song is a series of musical warbles and twitters, often with a long note.
More photos
American Goldfinch FAQ
How big is the American Goldfinch?
The American goldfinch is a small finch, 11–14 cm (4.3–5.5 in) long, with a wingspan of 19–22 cm (7.5–8.7 in).
What does the American Goldfinch eat?
The American goldfinch is a diurnal feeder.
How long does the American Goldfinch live?
The oldest known American goldfinch was 10 years and 5 months old.
How do I identify a American Goldfinch?
Small finch; breeding males are lemon yellow with a black cap and black wings.
Where does the American Goldfinch live?
It may also be found in open deciduous and riparian woodlands and areas of secondary growth.
Is the American Goldfinch endangered?
No. The IUCN Red List rates the American Goldfinch as least concern (status read from Wikidata).
Facts on this page are summarized from the Wikipedia article on the American Goldfinch (read October 27, 2026) and conservation status from Wikidata. Quick ID notes are Birdstagram's own summary.