Purple Finch

About This Species

A raspberry-red finch of northern forests and wooded suburbs, the Purple Finch is less common at feeders than its close relative the House Finch. Males are suffused with deep rosy-red color, especially on the head and breast.

Fun Facts

• Misleading name: Plumage is more raspberry-red than purple.
• Beautiful song: Rich, warbling song often compared to House Finch but more complex and musical.
• Irruptive visitor: Numbers vary greatly from year to year depending on food availability.
• Seed specialists: Strong bill adapted for cracking open seeds, especially fond of sunflower seeds.