American Goldfinch
(Carduelis tristis)
Field Marks: Breeding males, with bright yellow plumage, black cap, black wings, and black tail is easily recognized. Female is duller: yellow below, olive-yellow above, and does not have black cap. In winter, males loses black cap, and both males and females become more brown or gray in overall color; however, always note the white undertail coverts
Nest Habits: Nests in shrubs or trees, generally 1-33 or more feet above the ground. Nest is a cup-shaped structure built from plant fibers and lined with plant down.
Eggs: 3-7, usually 4-6; 16 mm.; light blue. Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young. Incubation lasts approximately 10-12 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 11-17 days old.
