There are three different kinds of finches

Goldfinch, photo by Steffon McGregor - (705) 785-3095

in the area: the Purple, the Pine Siskin, and the American Goldfinch. These birds closely resemble sparrows in size and colouring, with the exception of the Goldfinch. They feed mainly on seeds, having the best-suited bill to do so. The male Purple finch is a dull rose-red color, with the brightest tones on his head and rump. The female Purple Finch is almost identical to the female Pine Siskin, as they both are white with heavy brown stripes - a lot like the Sparrow. The male Pine Siskin's only difference from these two females is its dashes of yellow on the wings and tail. The Goldfinch, on the other hand, is a striking bright yellow, with a black cap in the summer, while the female is a duller yellow with no black cap. Goldfinches and Purple Finches are in the area year round, whereas the Pine Siskin is only in the area for the summer. All can be spotted near open woods, roadsides and the forest's edge. During the winter the Purple and Gold finch are usually found at feeders. Their songs are canary or sparrow-like, usually very musical and are repeated often.