are thistle, sunflower, dandelion, ragweed,
goldenrod, coreopsis, marigold, cosmos and
mullein. Generally, these are not high-mainte-
nance plants (the finches don’t seem to care
that they are sometimes called weeds).
Water is important to all birds, and finches
are particularly happy to splash around in a
birdbath or shallow pond. They like to roost
(summer and winter) in dense evergreens;
again, plants that don’t require much attention.
Goldfinches wander widely to feed, so don’t be
surprised if their presence at your feeders is
more variable than that of other species.
With consideration for their habitat and food
preferences, and consideration in the way
we present food for them, we, too, may bring
home the gold. So, on your mark …
Goldfinch
Habitat Solutions
To attract goldfinches, provide a habitat they like. For some of us
this may require that we actually do less yard work than usual. For
example, goldfinches enjoy the natural meadows that develop in
areas previously maintained as lawn. Among their favorite flowers
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