Pine Siskin Carduelis pinus

Pine Siskin Carduelis pinus Both the common and scientific names reflect this species' reliance on pine seeds, although these birds cheerfully consume the seeds of hemlocks, cedars, and other evergreens. Pine Siskins occur in noisy flocks and are frequent visitors to feeding stations, especially when conifer seeds are scarce. Near feeders and birdbaths, these little birds can be quite tame and approachable.

Identification Brown above and below with darker streaks; some birds are paler overall, others darker; yellow on wing and on deeply notched tail. Females have less yellow.

Voice A harsh shick-shick and a buzzy, ascending bzzrreeee. Call note a sweeeeeet.

Habitat Conifer forests; also in alders, aspens, and other deciduous trees near northern conifer forests.

Range Breeds from S. Alaska to Newfoundland south through most of the forested West; east through Great Lakes region to New England. Winters irregularly farther south.