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Purple Finch
The purple finch is a very common feeder bird, and they are a delight to watch. Learn how to attract purple finches to your yard, and listen to their song.
Photo: George Harrison
Scientific Name:
Carpodacus purpureus
.
Family:
Finch.
Length:
6 inches.
Wingspan:
10 inches.
Distinctive Markings:
Male is a raspberry tinge, brightest on head and rump. Tail is notched. Females and juveniles are brown-gray striped.
Nest:
Prefers trees in dense foliage. Females lays four to five pale green-blue eggs speckled with blacks and browns.
Song:
An unstructured but melodious, "fridi ferdi frididifri fridi frr" call.
Habitat:
Openings in swamps, along streams and hillsides near feeding stations.
Diet:
Mostly a seed-eater, but also feeds on weeds, grasses, berries, beetles and caterpillars.
Backyard Favorites:
Sunflower seeds and millet.
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