In our region, the purple finch is a winter visitor, typically seen from October through April as they migrate south from their breeding grounds in the northern U.S. and Canada.
Males are distinguished by their vibrant raspberry-red coloration, primarily on their head, chest, and back, while females are heavily streaked brown with a white eyebrow.
They favor mixed forests but are often found at backyard feeders, particularly those offering sunflower seeds or safflower. Look for their stout, conical bill and listen for their rich, warbling song, which is often described as more musical and complex than that of the more common house finch.
Their population fluctuates in the region depending on food availability, especially during irruption years when they may appear in greater numbers.
