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.