Pine Siskin

Carduelis pinus

A tame gregarious winter visitor throughout most of the state, although it may be found in all seasons in the Black Hills.  Pine Siskins behave very similarly as Goldfinches, and are often found at home feeders with them.  Pine Siskins are sometimes attracted to sources of salt, and many may be killed on salted roads in the winter.

Habitat: Prefers mixed or conifer forest during nesting season.  Found in wide variety of habitats in winter and migration, including forest openings and edges, brushy fields, and residential areas.

Diet: Mostly seeds of trees such as birch and spruce, also other seeds, buds, flowers, nectar, and occasionally insects.

Behavior: Will forage at all levels and in all types of vegetation.  They often forage in small groups, including groups of mixed finches, often including goldfinches.

Nesting: April through July

Breeding Map: Breeding Bird Survey

Song: Pine Siskin Song.

Migration: Winters throughout most of the U.S.  Summers in Canada, the U.S. Rocky Mountains, New England, and the West Coast.

Similar Species: House Finch, Purple Finch

Bird Feeders: Sunflower seed, thistle seed, occasionally other seeds.

Conservation Status: Widespread and very common, with numbers appearing to be stable.

Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Pine Siskin

2) Cornell University's "All About Birds - Pine Siskin"

3) eNature.com: Pine Siskin

Photo Information: February 16th, 2009 - Farm Island near Pierre, South Dakota -- Terry Sohl

Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or text links below for additional, higher-resolution Pine Siskin photos.