American Goldfinch song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the American Goldfinch, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

A long, rambling, and musical series of warbles, trills, and twitters, often interspersed with 'swee-swee-swee' notes. It is often described as a 'potato-chip' song, due to the 'per-chick-o-ree' or 'po-ta-to-chip' call notes incorporated into the song, especially during flight.

Calls

Common calls include a distinctive 'po-ta-to-chip' or 'per-chick-o-ree' call given in flight, a plaintive 'sweeet' call, and a rapid 'tsee-tsee-tsee' alarm call.

When they vocalize

Most vocal during the breeding season (late spring to late summer), with males singing frequently to attract mates and defend territory. Calls are given year-round, especially during flight and when foraging in flocks.

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