We’re passionate about birds and nature. That’s why we opened a Wild Birds Unlimited Nature Shop in our community.
Village West #17,
3330 W. 26th
Erie, PA 16506
Phone: (814) 838-5145
Email: Send Message
Store Hours:
Mon - Thurs: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Fri: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
Sat: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sun: Closed
Both Goldfinches and House Finches remain in the area all year. Goldfinches molt into a duller plumage during the winter months, making them less conspicuous at the feeders, while House Finches keep their colors all year long. Despite the fact that finches remain in the area year round, they do not always feed at Nyjer Thistle feeders.
Mild winters and plentiful seed production by wild plants can cause finches to abandon feeders in favor of these natural food sources. Cold spells may send finches scrambling for the fats in Black Oil Sunflowers, instead. Finches also have a tendency to wander more during winter - flocks will congregate for a while in one spot and then seem to disappear overnight as they move to another area within their vast territories.
So, should you try to feed Nyjer Thistle in the winter?
If you have been feeding Nyjer Thistle to finches prior to winter, go ahead and keep a feeder out for them. To keep the seed fresh - thistle in feeders should be changed every four weeks - put small amounts in the feeder. You can add more if a feeding flock settles in your neighborhood.
For those of you who have just begun your attempts to attract finches this winter, it may take longer for the finches to find your feeder. Be patient. Again, keep just small amounts of thistle in your feeder and make sure it is fresh, so when finches decide to investigate your feeder they will like what they find.
We may get other birds during the winter that will feed on Nyjer Thistle seeds, such as Pine Siskins and Common Redpolls. They, too, will be seeking feeders that have fresh seed. Be sure to watch your Finch Feeders for any unusual visitors. For more on potential winter visitors, check out Know These Winter Birds.
Finch activity picks up at Nyjer Thistle feeders mid to late March, right when Goldfinches begin molting back into their bright yellow breeding plumage. At that time, you can expect more finches to visit your finch feeders.
