The male Goldfinch in his breeding plumage is a joy to see. Chris Grossman photographed a pair. The female is on the left and it looks like they are gathering nesting materials.

American Goldfinches are the latest songbird to breed. They depend on thistle seed and have to wait to see how abundant it will be.

Rick and I have lured them to a thistle feeder and we enjoy seeing them during the spring and summer. Pine Siskins also join them at the feeder, along with a clever Acorn Woodpecker now and then.

To hear the song of a Goldfinch, here's the link to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology: http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/american_goldfinch/sounds

Thanks to Chris for allowing me to share his photo with you here.