South · Mississippi Flyway

American Goldfinch in Tennessee

Spinus tristis — Fringillidae

AbundantAbundance
Year-round residentSeasonal status
12Active months
163,642Observations

About American Goldfinch in Tennessee

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 Tennessee, this species is classified as abundant. It is a year-round resident, present in all 12 months.

Monthly Activity — American Goldfinch in Tennessee

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
View full American Goldfinch profile →

Best Time to See American Goldfinch in Tennessee

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

Other birds in Tennessee

Birds you might also encounter in Tennessee.

American Goldfinch in other states

American Goldfinch in Tennessee: Quick Facts

The American Goldfinch (Spinus tristis) is one of the most commonly seen bird in Tennessee. It is classified as a year-round resident in the state, falling within the South region and the Mississippi Flyway migration corridor.

Preferred habitats include weedy field, garden, open woodland. For birders in Nashville and throughout Tennessee, 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 Tennessee using the related birds section.