Lesser Goldfinch or American Goldfinch?
Here's how to tell the difference
Lesser Goldfinch
American Goldfinch
Lesser Goldfinch
Spinus psaltria
General appearance
The lesser goldfinch is a small songbird, about 4.5 inches long, with a wingspan of approximately 8 inches. It has a short, conical bill ideal for seed eating. Its tail is notched and relatively short. The species is notable for its bright yellow underparts, contrasting with black or olive-green upperparts. The wings and tail are dark with white wing bars and edges, giving it a distinctive appearance in flight.
Male vs female
Male lesser goldfinches typically display a glossy black cap and upper back. Regionally, their back can also appear olive-green. Females are generally more subdued, with olive-green upperparts and a less distinct cap. Both genders share the yellow underparts, but females have duller shades. During the breeding season, males are brighter with clearer contrast, while females remain consistent year-round.
Juvenile
Juvenile lesser goldfinches resemble adult females, displaying olive-green upperparts and yellowish underparts but with more muted overall tones. They lack the distinct black cap found in adult males. As they mature, male juveniles develop the characteristic coloration and markings of adult males, while females retain their more subdued appearance.
Size
3.5 - 4.3 in/0.3 - 0.4 oz
There's more to learn about Lesser Goldfinch
View full detailsAmerican Goldfinch
Spinus tristis
Also known as: Eastern Goldfinch, Wild Canary
General appearance
The American Goldfinch is roughly the size of a Sparrow, approximately 4.5-5 inches or 11-13 cm in length. It has a rounded wing shape and a notched tail. The bird's standout colorations are black, brown, gray, white, and particularly, yellow.
Male vs female
In summer, the male American Goldfinch is a vibrant yellow with black wings, tail, and forehead. This bold coloration makes it easy to spot. Conversely, summer female birds are a more subdued yellow-green. In winter, the colors of both males and females may vary from yellowish brown to gray, with notable, bold wing-bars of white or buff on black wings, and white tail spots.
Juvenile
The juveniles don't have the distinguishing yellow coloring of the adults. Their plumage tends to range from a dull brown to a gray color, making them trickier to identify. This less distinct appearance serves as a form of camouflage against potential predators.
Size
4.3 - 5.1 in/0.4 - 0.7 oz
There's more to learn about American Goldfinch
View full detailsHow to tell the Lesser Goldfinch from the American Goldfinch
Visual differences
The Lesser Goldfinch is slightly smaller than the American Goldfinch, both about 4.5 inches long, but the American is heavier. Male Lesser Goldfinches have bright yellow underparts with black or olive-green backs and short, conical bills. In comparison, male American Goldfinches are vibrant yellow with black wings and forehead in summer. Female and juvenile coloration is more subdued in both species. Notably, Lesser Goldfinches have white wing bars, whereas American Goldfinches possess bold, white wing bars and tail spots. Both have notched tails but differ in seasonal coloration changes.
Key differences and behavior
The Lesser Goldfinch and American Goldfinch exhibit distinct behaviors and habitat preferences. Lesser Goldfinches thrive in semi-open areas with trees near weedy fields, feeding mainly on seeds from the daisy family and insects like aphids. They breed from early spring to mid-autumn, with males performing display flights to court females. American Goldfinches also prefer semi-open areas but are known for migrating to avoid cold winters unless food is abundant. Their diet is similar, focusing on seeds, but they also feed young with regurgitated seeds. American Goldfinch nesting, occurring later in the season, involves both parents in chick rearing. Both species frequent feeders for sunflower and thistle seeds. Lesser Goldfinches are notable for their adaptable diet, while American Goldfinches are more sensitive to temperature changes, migrating further south in winter.
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