Lawrence's Goldfinch
NameLawrence's Goldfinch
Common NameLawrence's Goldfinch
Scientific NameSpinus lawrencei
FamilyFringillidae
Wingspan (cm)20
Length (cm)11.5
Weight (g)11.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a striking black face and crown, a gray body, and a prominent yellow patch on the breast and yellow wing bars. Females are duller, lacking the extensive black on the face and having less yellow on the breast and wings. Juveniles resemble females but are streaked.
Vocalization / CallTheir calls are distinctive, often described as metallic, tinkling, or bell-like, such as a 'tink-ul' or 'tink-tink'. The song is a varied, sweet, and melodious series of tinkling notes.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, desert, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangePrimarily found in California, extending into parts of Arizona and Baja California, Mexico. Their distribution is highly variable and nomadic, influenced by the availability of food resources.
Identifying Featuresblack face and cap (male), gray body, yellow breast patch (male), yellow wing bars, small size, conical bill, metallic call
Description
This small finch is characterized by its distinctive black face and cap, contrasting with a gray body and bright yellow patches. They are highly nomadic, often moving in search of abundant seed crops in arid and semi-arid environments.
