Help Goldfinches After Nesting Season

Attracting goldfinches is one of the biggest payoffs of backyard bird feeding. That breathtaking gold really makes them stand out from the other visitors at your feeders. That is, when they show off their gold plumage, a time that's just around the corner.

Unlike many birds, goldfinches molt their body feathers twice a year; once in the spring before breeding and again after nesting in the fall.

Molting requires lots of nutrients and energy which probably diminishes their ability to nest earlier in the season. In fact, goldfinches will delay breeding until the greatest number of thistle, dandelion and other composite flowers are seeding. The American Goldfinch is one of the latest breeding songbirds, waiting to nest until mid-summer when thistle seeds and down are readily available. Young American Goldfinches are dependent on their parents for at least three weeks after fledging. Be sure to watch and listen for their energetic begging as they harass their parents for food at your feeders.

You can make a difference for the goldfinches visiting your yard by providing their preferred foods. Goldfinches love our WBU Finch Blend. It combines two of their favorite foods, Nyjer® and sunflower chips. These are full of beneficial fats and proteins that the birds seek out. Plus, they are small and easy to eat, mimicking the composite seeds they feed on in the wild. Fill your feeders with these foods and let the show begin!

Nyjer® is a registered trademark of the Wild Bird Feeding Industry.