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Washington State Bird

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Washington State Bird: Willow Goldfinch

Scientific Name: Carduelis tristis

State Bird Description: The Willow Goldfinch is a small member of the finch family which is popular for bird feeders to attract to their yards. The Willow Goldfinch is sometimes referred to as the Eastern Goldfinch due to the large numbers often seen on the East Coast of the US. The Willow Goldfinch is approximately 7 to 8 inches long and weighs less than 1 oz. The male Willow Goldfinch is a brilliant yellow during mating season and the females are a lighter yellow somewhat brown. The Willow Goldfinch is the only finch to molt all it's feathers two times a year. The Willow Goldfinch is another name for an Eastern Goldfinch, the Willow Goldfinch was named the state bird of Washington by school children in Washington State in 1951.

Where It's Found: The Willow 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.

Washington State Bird Dedication: 1951