Yes, there are several species of finches that can be found in the state of Oklahoma. Finches are small passerine birds in the Fringillidae family. They are known for their cone-shaped beaks that are adapted for eating seeds and nuts. Some of the finch species found in Oklahoma include:
House Finch
The House Finch is one of the most common and widespread finch species found across Oklahoma. Native to the western United States, House Finches were introduced to the eastern states and have expanded their range significantly. Males have red plumage on their heads, breasts, and rumps, while females are brown-streaked. House Finches are adaptable and can be found in urban and suburban areas.
American Goldfinch
American Goldfinches are small, colorful finches with yellow body plumage and black wings. The males have brighter yellow coloring in the summer that fades to an olive color in the winter. Goldfinches make a distinctive “potato-chip” call and have an undulating flight pattern. They breed in open fields or meadows across the state.
Purple Finch
The Purple Finch is aptly named for the adult male’s bright raspberry-red plumage. Females are much duller brown. Purple Finches have a warbling song and short conical beak. They are irregular winter migrants in Oklahoma, sometimes forming large flocks at backyard bird feeders when their breeding grounds further north become snow covered.
Other Finch Species
Other finch species that may be observed in Oklahoma include the Cassin’s Finch, Pine Siskin, Lesser Goldfinch and Red Crossbill. Each has its own distinctive plumage, song and preferred habitat. Careful observation and use of a field guide can help identify these finch species when they visit the state.
Finch Habitats in Oklahoma
Finches occupy a variety of habitats across Oklahoma including:
- Backyard bird feeders – Several finch species will visit platform feeders, hopper feeders or tube feeders in suburban backyards, especially in winter.
- Grasslands – Native grass prairies provide an ideal habitat for grassland species like the Grasshopper Sparrow.
- Woodlands – Species like the Purple Finch and Pine Siskin inhabit coniferous or mixed woodlands.
- Agricultural areas – Some finches forage for seeds in open fields and croplands.
- Marshes – Wetland species like the Swamp Sparrow live in marshy areas.
The availability of food and nesting sites, as well as habitat protection, are key factors that help support finch populations across these varied environments in Oklahoma. Knowing which finch species occur in each habitat type can help birders know where to look.
Backyard Bird Feeding Tips for Finches
Here are some tips to attract finches to your backyard bird feeders in Oklahoma:
Provide Nyjer/Thistle Seed Feeders
Finches love nyjer seed, also known as thistle seed. The small, oil-rich nyjer seeds are perfect for finches. Use feeders with small ports and perches made specifically for nyjer seed.
Offer Niger Seed Feeders
Niger seed comes from the same plant family as nyjer seed and also attracts finches. Try offering niger seed in tube feeders or mesh bags.
Supply Safflower Seed
Many songbirds love safflower seed, including cardinals, chickadees, grosbeaks and finches. Safflower seed is a good alternative to standard sunflower seed.
Add Suet Feeders
Insect-eating birds like finches will eat suet for its fat and protein content. Suet feeders with smaller sized openings are best so big birds can’t bully finches away.
Provide Fresh Water
A birdbath, fountain or well-maintained water feature will give finches a place to drink and bathe. Moving water helps prevent disease transmission.
Following these tips can help make your backyard an attractive oasis for Oklahoma’s colorful and lively finches!
Notable Finch Species of Oklahoma
Here is a little more detail about some of the finch species found in the state:
Species | Description | Habitat |
---|---|---|
House Finch | Red-plumaged finch, males have bright red heads. Females streaked brown. Common at backyard feeders. | Urban areas, suburbs, parks |
Purple Finch | Distinctive raspberry-red plumage on males. Warbling song. Irregular winter migrant. | Coniferous and mixed woodlands |
Cassin’s Finch | Pinkish-red head and breast in males. Smaller and stockier than Purple Finch. | Western OK, pine woods, high elevation |
Lesser Goldfinch | Small yellow finch with black back and wings. Smaller than American Goldfinch. | Brushy areas, overgrown fields |
Pine Siskin | Small brown finch with yellow markings. Pointed tail and notched tail feathers. | Coniferous or mixed woodlands |
This shows the diversity of finches that utilize the various biomes and ecological niches across Oklahoma throughout the year. Backyards, grasslands, pine forests and marshes may all host finches at one time or another.
Conclusion
In summary, Oklahoma provides a suitable habitat for a nice variety of lively finch species. The House Finch and American Goldfinch can readily be attracted to backyard bird feeders with the proper food and feeders. Other species like the Purple Finch may be irregular winter visitors. Grassland, woodland and wetland habitats across the state also support finch populations. Birders who learn finch songs and observe the seasonal movements can enjoy observing the colorful diversity of these small seed-eating birds across the landscapes of Oklahoma.