The house finch (Haemorhous mexicanus) is a common bird native to the western United States that has become an introduced species in the eastern part of the country. They are lively, sociable birds that frequent backyard bird feeders and nest in residential areas. House finches get their name from their tendency to perch on houses and be quite comfortable in close proximity to human habitation. Knowing what attracts house finches can help people provide the right habitat and food sources to encourage these colorful songbirds to visit their yards.
Preferred Habitats
House finches are found in a variety of open and semi-open habitats across North America including urban and suburban areas, parks, farms, chaparral, and light woodlands. They do well around human development and often congregate in large flocks in neighborhood settings. Some of the habitat features that are attractive to house finches include:
Access to Feeders
House finches are commonly drawn to backyard bird feeders stocked with preferred foods like black oil sunflower seeds, nyjer seeds, and millet. They also eat at platform feeders, hopper feeders, tube feeders, and window feeders placed at medium heights 5-10 feet off the ground. Feeders that provide good perching space for house finches are best.
Availability of Nesting Sites
House finches nest in cavities including openings in buildings, the crooks of gutters, hanging flower pots, bird houses, and enclosed patio furniture. They also nest in tree holes and other natural cavities. Providing proper nest boxes targeted to the size and habitat preferences of house finches may attract breeding pairs.
Native Vegetation
House finches feed on seeds from native vegetation including mulberries, dandelions, sunflowers, wild spinach, and ragweed. Encouraging growth of their favored native plants around yards and gardens helps supplement their diet. Fruit trees are also popular feeding sites.
Water Sources
Access to fresh water for drinking and bathing is important for attracting finches. Birdbaths, fountains, ponds, and other water features provide key resources for house finches to satisfy their daily water needs. Moving water that trickles or bubbles is especially enticing.
Preferred Foods
Offering the right foods that house finches like is one of the best ways to bring them close by. Some foods that will attract them include:
Sunflower Seeds
Black oil sunflower seeds are a favorite at bird feeders. The small size and high fat and protein content make them ideal nourishment for house finches. Feeders that provide sunflower seeds in trays, hoppers, or tubes help satisfy their appetite.
Nyjer Seed
Nyjer seed, also called thistle seed, is small and high in oil content. Finches can cling to mesh feeders where nyjer seeds are easily accessible. Offer nyjer in specialty feeders made for smaller seeds.
Millet
The tiny, round millet seeds are favored by house finches. Pour millet directly on platform feeders or mix it into seed mixes at feeders. Prioritize white proso millet which has the highest fat content.
Fruit
Chopped fruit like raisins, currants, berries, apples, and cherries are a treat for visiting finches. Skewer cut up fruit on branches or add fruit pieces into mesh onion bags for them to pick at. Offer fruit in platform or hopper feeders.
Cracked Corn
The large granules of cracked corn are easily eaten by house finches. The starch and calories provide excellent energy. Mix cracked corn into other seeds at platform feeders they frequent.
Preferred Nesting Sites
House finches are cavity nesters who build nests in enclosed spaces for raising their young. They are urban adapters who have learned to nest in human structures as well as tree hollows. Here are some of their favorite nesting sites:
Building Eaves and Gutters
The small nooks under roof eaves and inside rain gutters offer protected shelter. Overhangs, window frames, vents, and exterior AC units also get used.
Hanging Planters
Hanging baskets and planters often go unused over winter. Finches may build nests inside unused pots and plant trays on porches.
Porch Furniture
The hollow metal framework of patio furniture like tables, chairs, and umbrellas mimic nesting cavities for house finches.
Bird Houses
Specially made bird houses with 1 1/8- 1 1/2 inch diameter entry holes and depths of 6-8 inches suit house finches well. Mount boxes 8-12 feet high.
Tree Hollows
Natural tree cavities from decay in trunks and branches provide nesting sites too. Old woodpecker holes are prime real estate.
Nesting Materials
House finches build nests out of a variety of natural materials they can forage. Here are some of the most commonly used:
Grasses
Finches gather different dried grass clippings, sticks, stems, and weed stalks. Longer pieces form the nest base while short pieces line the interior cup.
Plant Fibers
Cotton-like seeds, soft mosses, pine needles, cloth fabric, and stringy plant fibers help cushion nests. Milkweed down and cattail fluff are favorites.
Feathers
Collected bird feathers or strands of their own molted feathers are woven in for warmth. Feathers help insulate eggs and conceal nests.
Spider Webs
Light yet strong spider silk binds nesting material together for sturdy construction with a touch of elasticity.
Hair and Fuzz
Pet fur, human hair, or soft plant fuzz gets added to the nest lining. This finishing touch aids with insulation.
Meeting Nesting Requirements
In addition to physical nest sites, attracting house finches requires fulfilling some of their nesting preferences. Here are some key requirements to support nesting and rearing young:
Nesting Time Frame
House finches generally breed between March and August but may nest earlier in warmer climates. Having nest boxes accessible during this peak breeding period is important.
Nest Site Protection
The nest area should be sheltered from severe weather and predation. Small entry holes and concealed locations help keep eggs and young safe.
Nesting Materials
Offering natural fibers, pet fur, and soft plant materials provides resources for nest building. Supply a nearby source they can draw from.
Feeders Nearby
Access to ample food from feeders allows parents to quickly gather seeds for nestlings. proximity is key when they are constantly feeding young.
Water Source
Fresh water for drinking and bathing helps keep birds in optimal condition for breeding. Hydration supports egg production too.
Backyard Habitat Enhancements
Making some adjustments to your yard habitat and landscaping can further attract house finches. Here are some enhancements to try:
Plant Shrubs and Trees
Finches take cover in dense shrubs and nest in trees. Plant native bushes and small trees they naturally flock to.
Add Water Features
Birds require water daily, so placing a birdbath or fountain provides a frequent watering hole.
Reduce Pesticide Use
Cutting back on chemical pesticides provides more natural food sources from seeds, fruits, and insects.
Install Nest Boxes
Putting up suitable nesting boxes in optimal locations gives them viable spots to raise young.
Include Native Plants
Grow native flowers, grasses, vines, and fruiting plants that attract finches for feeding and nesting needs.
Food | Details |
---|---|
Sunflower Seeds | Black oil sunflower seeds in feeders |
Nyjer Seed | Small nyjer seeds from specialized feeders |
Millet | White proso millet in mixed feeders |
Fruit | Chopped raisins, berries, apples |
Cracked Corn | Cracked corn kernels mixed with other seeds |
This table summarizes some of the preferred house finch food sources that can be offered at backyard feeders.
Nesting Site | Features |
---|---|
Building Eaves | Protected small spaces and nooks |
Hanging Planters | Unused hanging pots and planter trays |
Porch Furniture | Hollow metal framework mimics natural cavities |
Bird Houses | Specially made enclosed bird houses suited for size |
Tree Hollows | Natural decay holes and cavities in trunks/branches |
This table highlights some of the best places house finches like to build their nests.
Meeting Nesting Needs
House finches have the following requirements for successful nesting you can accommodate:
- Peak breeding season from March to August
- Sheltered nest sites away from weather and predators
- Soft natural materials to build sturdy, insulated nests
- Close proximity to feeders while raising nestlings
- Access to fresh drinking and bathing water
Providing these important provisions will help attract nesting pairs to your yard.
Backyard Habitat Improvements
To further attract house finches, make these backyard enhancements:
- Plant more small trees, bushes, and shrubs for cover
- Add a water feature like a birdbath or fountain
- Cut back on chemical pesticides around your yard
- Install suitable nesting boxes where parents can safely raise young
- Grow more native plants that provide food sources for finches
Focus on providing their favored foods, nesting sites, water, cover, and native plants.
Conclusion
House finches are common, lively backyard birds that can bring joy with their bright colors, songs, and active habits. By understanding their preferred foods, nesting requirements, and habitat features, you can successfully attract them to visit your yard more often. Stock their favorite seeds at feeders, offer safe nesting spots, and provide native vegetation that supplies their natural food and shelter needs. With a few enhancements to your outdoor space, you can turn your yard into a house finch haven. Taking steps to meet their fundamental needs will ensure a constant, captivating stream of these delightful birds outside your windows for years to come.