The house finch (Haemorhous mexicanus) is a small songbird native to the western United States and Mexico. During the winter months, most house finches that breed in the United States migrate south to avoid harsh winter conditions. Their winter range extends from southern California and Arizona south through western Mexico. Some house finches remain further north during winter, though their numbers decrease significantly. Understanding house finch overwintering behavior and range helps us better protect this popular backyard bird.
What is the house finch?
The house finch is a small finch native to the western United States and Mexico. Here are some quick facts about the house finch:
- Scientific name: Haemorhous mexicanus
- Length: 4.7-6.3 inches
- Wingspan: 8.5-9.8 inches
- Weight: 0.6-0.9 oz
- Lifespan: up to 12 years
- Diet: seeds, fruits, insects
- Nesting: Cup nests in trees, ledges, human structures
- Eggs: 3-6 pale blue eggs
The house finch is highly adaptable and social. They are permanent residents across much of their range. However, northern populations migrate south for the winter while southern populations are non-migratory.
Where is the house finch found?
Breeding Range
The house finch breeding range includes:
- Western United States from the Great Plains to the Pacific Coast
- Southern British Columbia to Baja California
- Northern Mexico
Within their breeding range, house finches are found in urban areas, suburbs, parks, deserts, and open woodlands. They have adapted well to live alongside humans.
Winter Range
The house finch winter range extends from southern California and Arizona south through western Mexico. Their winter range includes:
- Southern California
- Southern Arizona
- Southern New Mexico
- Western Texas
- Western Mexico as far south as Oaxaca
Some house finches remain through winter along coastal California and the southern half of Arizona. Populations further north migrate south.
Why do house finches migrate?
House finches primarily migrate to avoid harsh winter conditions including:
- Extreme cold
- Snow
- Ice
- Limited food availability
By migrating south, finches can find more favorable weather, food, and water. Remaining further north risks exposure and starvation over the winter.
Migration Distance
Migration distance depends on location:
- Northeastern birds may migrate over 1,000 miles south
- Midwestern birds migrate 500-1,000 miles
- Western birds migrate shorter distances under 500 miles
Birds in mild coastal areas like Southern California are often permanent residents who do not migrate.
Timing
Fall migration south typically occurs between September and November. Spring migration north occurs between February and May. Exact timing varies by location.
Where do house finches overwinter?
Here is an overview of key overwintering areas:
California and the Southwest
- Southern California from San Francisco south
- Southern half of Arizona
- Southwestern New Mexico and western Texas
Mild climates allow year-round habitation by house finches in these regions. Some seasonal movements may occur locally.
Northwest Mexico
Northwest Mexico including:
- Baja California
- Sonora
- Sinaloa
- Chihuahua
This is a key overwintering area for birds migrating from further north.
Central and Southern Mexico
Regions further south including:
- Nayarit
- Jalisco
- Michoacán
- Guerrero
- Oaxaca
Birds from the northernmost breeding ranges overwinter in these warmer southern areas.
What habitats do they use in winter?
House finches use a variety of habitats in winter including:
- Urban areas
- Suburbs
- Rural settlements
- Orchards
- Open woodlands
- Parks and gardens
- Agricultural areas
Access to artificial food sources helps their overwinter survival. They often gather in large flocks at feeders.
How far north do house finches remain in winter?
Some house finches overwinter surprisingly far north. Here is how their winter range extends north:
West Coast
- Pacific Northwest coast to Northern California
- Columbia River Valley in Oregon and Washington
Mild climate allows them to overwinter along the West Coast further than other regions.
Southwest
- Central Arizona and New Mexico
- Central Texas
They can be found during winter across roughly the southern halves of Arizona, New Mexico and Texas.
Midwest and Northeast
- Ohio River Valley
- Southern Great Lakes region
- Mid-Atlantic coast
Some remain along the Ohio River Valley, Great Lakes, and Northeast coast during winter. Their numbers decline further north.
Region | Northernmost Winter Range |
---|---|
West Coast | Northern California |
Southwest | Central Arizona/New Mexico |
Midwest | Ohio River Valley |
Northeast | Mid-Atlantic Coast |
Do some house finches remain year-round?
Yes, house finches can be found year-round through much of their range, however their numbers decrease in winter away from the mildest regions. Year-round habitation is most common in:
- Southern California
- Extreme southern Arizona
- Western Texas coast
- Pacific Northwest coast
- Extreme southwest New Mexico
Some may remain further north than expected during mild winters. Backyard feeders support non-migratory winter populations.
Conclusion
In summary, house finches primarily overwinter across the southern U.S. from California to Texas and south into Mexico. Mild climates allow them to remain along the Pacific Coast and Desert Southwest further north. However, most birds migrate south from September to November returning February to May. Careful observation of finches in your area can reveal overwintering habits. Providing feeders and shelter supports their winter survival. Understanding their movements helps protect house finch populations.