The Brambling is common finch in Europe and Asia. However,
every year, small numbers are found in Alaska during migration, apparently after
crossing the Bering strait from nearby Russia. Even smaller numbers will
occasionally migrate further south through North America. They have
reached several U.S. states. They can sometimes surprise a birder by
popping up unexpectedly at a feeder. However, there have only been two documented
cases of a Brambling in South Dakota (see SDOU's "Birds of South Dakota).
Habitat: Can
be found in a variety of semi-open and brushy habitats or open woodlands
during their unusual North American appearances. In their native range,
they breed in northern forests and winter in woodlands and brushy fields.
Diet: Feeds on insects and seeds during the summer
months. Feeds primarily on seeds during the winter.
Breeding: Non-breeder in South Dakota.
Song: A bold harsh dshweeee
song. They also have a chek-chek-chek flight call.
Migration: Small numbers are found every year in Alaska during migration, just a short
distance across the Bering Sea from their normal migration routes. Much
smaller numbers have continued their southward migration on the North American
side of the Pacific Ocean, and have reached many States in the continental
U.S.
Similar Species: Generally distinctive.
Conservation Status: Common in its normal range.
Photo Information: Taken in Norway, May 2005 by
Helge Sørensen
