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House Finch

(Carpodacus mexicanus)

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Size             : 5 1/4  inches long

Description      : Male   - Strawberry-red  on head and upper chest. 
                            Rest of body is streaky brown, like female.
                            Colors brightest in spring. 
                          
                   Female - Evenly streaked with brown and tan all over their bodies
                  
Preferred Habitat: Open woods, inhabited areas.

Preferred food   : Seeds, fruit, insects

Breeding Range   : British Columbia, Mexico, and throughout the continental United States and Hawaii.

Winter Range     : Permanent resident in breeding range

Interesting Facts: Originally a western bird only, native to Mexico, illegally introduced in New York City
                   as a pet caged bird. Discovering their legal dilema, dealers released the finches in 
                   the 1940's. The birds quickly established themselves on Long Island and also spread
                   throughout the eastern part of the U.S.
                   How they appeared in Hawaii is not known.
                   Not selective about nest site, will nest practically anywhere and will re-use old 
                   bird nests. Some of their favorite nest spots are in hanging baskets and in other potted plants,
                   especially on window sills.
                   They have a melodious, warbling voice and have a habit of singing while on the nest.
                   Both parents feed their nestlings berries and insects for about 14 days.