Finches

House Finch, Carpodacus mexicanus

Family Fringillidae (Finches)

Size: 6"

Season: Year-round

Habitat: Woodland edges, urban areas

The house finch is a western species that was introduced to eastern North America and is now common and widespread across the country. It is a relatively slim finch with a longish, slightly notched tail and a short, conical bill with a downcurved culmen. The male is brown above with streaking on the back, while below it is pale with heavy streaking. An orange-red wash pervades the supercilium, throat, and upper breast. The female is a drab gray brown, with similar streaking on the back and underside and no red on the face or breast. House finches have a variable diet that includes seeds, insects, and fruit, and they are often the most abundant birds at feeders. Their voice is a rapid, musical warble. The adult male is illustrated.