New Jersey State Bird or American goldfinch, is also known as seed eating bird. They are one the largest nesting birds and are very fond of sunflower seeds. Here's everything you need to know about them.
New Jersey State Bird -- Facts
Breed:
American goldfinch belongs to the family Fringgillidae which comes under the order Passeriformes.Size:
American goldfinch are 11 to 13 cm long. They are the same size as of English sparrow. Their wingspan is 19 to 22 cm and weight about 11 to 20 g.Life Span:
The average lifespan of American goldfinch is 11 years in wild and 9 years in captivity.Varieties:
There are no varieties available in American goldfinch as it itself is a type of finch.Origins:
They are believed to have originated in New Jersey.Physical Traits:
American goldfinch have heavy, short and conical beak. Their wings and tail feathers are black in color. During spring they shred. In these days the beak of both male and female birds becomes orange. In summer female birds are yellow in color. Male birds have a yellow plumage and jet black cap. Their wings are black with white wing bars.Temperament:
American goldfinch birds whistle sweet at the sign of danger. American goldfinch are fond of each other. They like to spend their time in groups.Trainability:
American goldfinch are not pet birds. You can not train them. They love to play in water. They enjoy having baths and after that they pick up some particles of sand.
New Jersey State Bird -- Care
Habitat:
American goldfinch prefers to live on tress in open areas, like along roadsides.Food:
American goldfinch is basically a seed eater. Their food has many varieties. They like to eat sunflower seeds, lettuce seeds etc. During the late summer there is always a shortage of seeds for these birds.Compatibility:
American goldfinch is very compatible among its relatives like redpolls and siskins. They are sociable but during nesting season like to be separate.
New Jersey State Bird -- Concerns
Benefits:
American goldfinch are birds which are capable of attracting many visitors. Their beautiful colors change in every season and are a great topic of research for scientists and bird lovers.Liabilities:
American goldfinch are not at all trouble making birds. They are peaceful.Health Issues:
American goldfinch do not suffer from many health issues.Specific Care Needs:
During summer American goldfinch have a shortage of seeds. You can keep a seed feeder in your backyard to attract these birds.Special Household Needs:
You can plant thistle plants in your backyard which will surely attract American goldfinch. You can keep a clean birdbath in which they can have their bath. Provide a seed feeder which will have all their favorite seeds.
New Jersey State Bird -- How to Choose
What to Look for:
American goldfinch are migratory birds. You can see them throughout the year in New Jersey. You can not keep them in cages though.Supplies:
American goldfinch will love it if you provide them seeds. You can also plant many trees in your backyard where they can nest.Expense:
American goldfinch are not kept as pet birds, being the state bird of New Jersey. They are not for sale, you can not purchase them.