What does the American Goldfinch eat?

The American Goldfinch's diet shapes where and when you'll find it. Understanding what it eats helps you predict where to look.

Diet overview

Granivore (primarily seeds, especially thistle, dandelion, sunflower, and other composite plants)

How it forages

Primarily granivorous, specializing in small seeds, particularly those from composite plants like thistle, dandelion, and sunflower. They are agile foragers, often clinging to seed heads upside down. They will also consume tree buds and occasionally insects, especially to feed young. They are frequent visitors to bird feeders offering nyjer (thistle) or black oil sunflower seeds.

When it feeds

Diurnal.

Explore the American Goldfinch