Midwest · Mississippi Flyway

American Goldfinch in Wisconsin

Spinus tristis — Fringillidae

CommonAbundance
Year-round residentSeasonal status
12Active months

About American Goldfinch in Wisconsin

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

Monthly Activity — American Goldfinch in Wisconsin

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 Wisconsin

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

Other birds in Wisconsin

Birds you might also encounter in Wisconsin.

American Goldfinch in other states

American Goldfinch in Wisconsin: Quick Facts

The American Goldfinch (Spinus tristis) is a common bird in Wisconsin. It is classified as a year-round resident in the state, falling within the Midwest region and the Mississippi Flyway migration corridor.

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