DECEMBER 2015 • NEBRASKAland 15
Pine Siskin
Song or calls: Rising "tsee," and harsh "chee"
in flight. Song is huskier version of American
goldfinch.
Description: Sexes similar. Brown above and
pale below with prominent dark streaking overall.
Yellow on wings and tail is conspicuous in flight;
yellow undertail coverts. Two whitish wing bars;
deeply notched tail. Bill is thinner than in other
finches. Juvenile is similar to adults but has
overall yellow tint.
Habitat: Migrants are found in both wooded
and treeless areas, often feeding in small flocks on
weed seeds. Breeding occurs in both coniferous
and deciduous trees, and in ornamental plantings
in diverse rural, suburban and urban settings.
Where in Nebraska: Irregular but sometimes
common spring and fall migrant and winter visitor
across the state. Occasional summer resident.
Field Notes: Winter range is erratic. May flock
with American goldfinches in winter.
Fun Facts: Pine grosbeak adults when breeding
develop pouches to carry food to their young. ■
To learn about more birds visit:
NebraskaBirdLibrary.org.
Nebraska Bird Library
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PHOTO
BY
BOB
GRIER