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House Finch
Scientific Name:
Haemorhous mexicanus
Type:
Bird
Habitat:
Deserts, chaparral, and the edges of conifer forests below 6,000 feet; adapted well to urban life and can be found near buildings, urban centers, parks, and backyards
Range:
American Southwest and Mexico; now be found along the east coast of the US
Status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)
This species is
NATVE
to the Truckee Meadows.
Identification:
House Finches are small birds, measuring 5 to 5.5 inches in length, weighing less than an ounce, with a wingspan of less than 10 inches. As is common with most finches, House Finches have a (slightly) notched tail, and a conical bill, ideal for eating seeds. House Finches have a predominantly plant-based diet, consuming seeds, buds, and fruits. They are comfortable eating on the ground, in the trees, or at your backyard bird feeder. Male House Finches have a red face, neck, and upper chest, while the females are varying shades of brown and gray. Highly social birds, you can find House Finches in large flocks.
Fast Facts:
House Finches were originally only found in the Western US and Mexico. However in 1940, several were let loose in New York. That small group survived and has spread across the eastern seaboard and much of the midwest. House Finches were also introduced on Oahu before 1870 and became common on all the Hawaiian islands by 1901. They are very adaptable birds.
While the red coloring of the male is the most common (and most preferred by female House Finches) the males may also be orange or even somewhat yellow depending on the pigments in the foods they eat. Just another reminder that “you are what you eat.”
Sources:
Contributor(s):
Regina Hockett (research & content)
Kevin Lynch (edits & page design)
Last Updated:
August 26, 2024 at 10:26:01 PM
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