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Lesser Goldfinch Identification

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The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    Lesser Goldfinches are tiny, stub-billed songbirds with long, pointed wings, and short, notched tails.

    Relative Size

    Smaller than a Song Sparrow; about the size of an American Goldfinch.

    Relative Sizesparrow or smallersparrow-sized or smaller

    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 3.5-4.3 in (9-11 cm)
      • Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (8-11.5 g)
      • Wingspan: 5.9-7.9 in (15-20 cm)

Regional Differences

Adult males from the eastern edge of the range in the U.S. (and south into Central America) have black backs; those in the southwest and west are green-backed. Females are similar in appearance throughout the range.