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Iowa State Bird

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Iowa State Bird: Eastern goldfinch

Scientific Name: Carduelis tristis

State Bird Description: The American Goldfinch is a small member fo the finch family which is popular for bird feeders to attract to their yards. The American Goldfinch is sometimes referred to as the Eastern Goldfinch due to the large numbers often seen on the East Coast of the US. The American Goldfinch is approximately 7 to 8 inches long and weighs less than 1 oz. The male American Goldfinch is a brilliant yellow during mating season and the females are a lighter yellow somewhat brown. The American Goldfinch is the only finch to molt all it's feathers two times a year.

Where It's Found: The American goldfinch can be found in the majority of the US and prefers open country such as fields, meadows, flood plains. It often can be found in gardens and backyards especially if there is a feeder of thistle close by.

Iowa State Bird Dedication: 1933