South · Atlantic Flyway

American Goldfinch in Maryland

Spinus tristisFringillidae

UncommonAbundance
Summer breederSeasonal status
4Active months

About American Goldfinch in Maryland

American Goldfinches specialize in seeds and readily visit gardens where mature flower heads remain standing. Nyjer feeders, sunflower chips, native seed-bearing flowers, and reduced pesticide use provide dependable food.

In Maryland, this species is classified as uncommon. It visits during the breeding season, typically spring through summer. The best months to observe this bird are April, May, September, October.

Monthly Activity — American Goldfinch in Maryland

Relative frequency of observations by month. Higher bars indicate peak periods for this species.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
RegularSeasonalRare

Identification

Colorsyellow, black, olive-brown
Size11–13 cm
Habitatweedy field, garden, open woodland
FamilyFringillidae

Best Time to See American Goldfinch in Maryland

January
Low
February
Low
March
Active
April
Active
May
Active
June
Active
July
Low
August
Low
September
Active
October
Active
November
Active
December
Low

Other birds in Maryland

Birds you might also encounter in Maryland.

American Goldfinch in other states

American Goldfinch in Maryland: Quick Facts

The American Goldfinch (Spinus tristis) is an uncommon bird in Maryland. It is classified as a summer breeder in the state, falling within the South region and the Atlantic Flyway migration corridor.

Preferred habitats include weedy field, garden, open woodland. The best months to spot this species in Maryland are April, May, September, October. For birders in Baltimore and throughout Maryland, knowing the seasonal patterns of American Goldfinch can help plan birding trips and backyard feeding strategies.

year-round or seasonal across most of the contiguous United States. Use the monthly activity chart above to plan your birding outings, and explore other bird species found in Maryland using the related birds section.