For months, birds have been actively involved in breeding and now some are getting ready to hit the road. In a few weeks, swallows, warblers, flycatchers and others will be on the move but one bird is only starting the cycle. The American Goldfinch, that striking male that some call wild canary, has been biding his time, waiting for thistle, milkweed and other plants to go to seed. The downy plant fibres attached to the seeds are perfect for lining the small grassy cup the female weaves for her nest. This is only available in mid to late summer.

The other reason they must nest late is because this species is a vegetarian. Unlike other songbirds that feed their young insects, Goldfinches need the seeds from these plants, grasses and others to feed their young. If you have feeders you know they love sunflower seeds but they also enjoy Nyjer seed.

Happy Birding!

Brian Morin

Publisher of Ontario Birding News