Messenger for Springtime

One of the first signs that spring is coming in our area is the return of the goldfinchs, and the return of their bright yellow color!

We have pairs of goldfinchs around all summer. In the autumn they begin to turn a uniformly dull olive color and form flocks, and then eventually they all fly south together.

In very early spring we start to see them again, still drab olive. Gradually the males regain their brilliant yellow color, the females get a little brighter too, and they form nesting pairs. They are such beautiful little birds.

The photo above is courtesy of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, and you may use it however you like!