Pine Siskin
Pine siskins are a real delight in backyards, and you can attract them with seed. Learn how to attract pine siskins to your yard, and listen to their song.
Photo: George Harrison
- Scientific Name: Carduelis pinus.
- Family: Finch.
- Length: 5 inches.
- Wingspan: 9 inches.
- Distinctive Markings: Both sexes appear similar, with brown-streaked bodies and touches of yellow on wings and tails. Males have more yellow plumage, visible during flight.
- Nest: Females build shallow nests of twigs and grasses, lined with fur or feathers.
- Song: Canary-like calls early in the morning range from a tuneful "sweeet" to a harsh rising "zzzzz" sound.
- Habitat: Backyards and coniferous forests.
- Diet: Seeds, nuts, vegetable shoots, rock salt and insects.
- Backyard Favorites: Nyjer (thistle) in a tube feeder with multiple perches. Also will eat cracked sunflower seeds.
Listen to this bird’s song