Pine Siskin

Another invader from Canada.... The Pine Siskin.

A widespread and conspicuous small finch from the coniferous forests of Canada and Alaska that invades Wisconsin's forests and feeders during the winter months. The Pine Siskin makes irregular and variable journeys to our parts, depending on the food supply of seeds. Often seen in large flocks mixed with Common Redpolls, American Goldfinches and American Tree Sparrows.

Identifying them is rather easy, especially if you know what you're looking for. Pine Siskins are are smaller than the goldfinches. Brown they are, with a heavily streaked belly and two white wing bars. The most identifiable characteristic are the yellow tips of their wings

The top picture was taken at the feeder behind the visitor center at Richard Bong State Recreational Area where I have seen dozens at a time feeding there. I like this picture because it shows the yellow wing tips quite well. The pictures below was taken by Tender Heart at my folk's place up in Pickeral recently. I really like how she captured the essence of the birds with the snow on their beaks.