Washington State Bird Information

Although the state of Washington began the process of selecting an official state bird in 1928, disagreements on the correct choice led to indecision for nearly 30 years. Many people were interested in the western meadowlark, although legislators argued that it was liked by too many other states. Finally, in 1951, the state chose the carduelis tristis, also known as the willow goldfinch or American goldfinch.

  1. Identification

    • A small bird of about 4.25 inches in length, the willow goldfinch is brown and yellow in color. It possess a small, cone-shaped bill, as well as a short tail. The males of the species have a yellow head, throat, and back, with a black forehead and wings. Meanwhile, the females do not have bright feathers and have wings with a dull appearance.

    Diet

    • Willow goldfinches survive mainly by eating the seeds of plants, although they consume insects, as well. They prefer not to eat on the ground, holding onto seed heads instead, selecting their diet from trees, such as cedars, elms and birches. When drinking water, the birds take a whole mouthful, then tilt their heads back rapidly to swallow.

    Habitat

    • Due to migration habits, willow goldfinches occupy a variety of locations throughout the year. They prefer to live in fields, gardens, orchards, or flood plains, and stick to these places when they are in the southern areas of their migration. However, as they move into northern regions, they will come closer to places where they may obtain food from people.

    Breeding

    • Although the birds begin to pair up during the winter, breeding does not begin until the end of June or beginning of July. The female will build the nest over the course of approximately six days, laying two to seven eggs. While the male brings her food, the female will sit on her eggs until they hatch, after approximately 12 to 14 days. The first breeding in the species is at about a year old.

    Behavior

    • Willow goldfinches are social birds, frequently forming flocks, which have a dance-like flight. They are also often seen in groups as they search for food. On average, the birds will live 9.3 years in the wild, although they can live up to 13 years. They may be seen in much of the United States at various points during the year, as well as Saskatchewan in the summer, and Mexico in the winter.