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Backyard
Birds
by Marvin
Schwilling
HOUSE
FINCH (Cover Photo)
A phenomenal increase in the house finch population
in the past two decades has made it the most abundant backyard
bird in many Kansas communities. First recorded in 1882,
it was not known to nest in Kansas until 1977 when it nested
in Decatur County.
California
house finches were released on Long Island, New York in
1940 when pet dealers released caged birds to escape prosecution
for transportation and possession of a protected species.
These birds adapted well and spread throughout the east.
Also, the western population exploded and moved east. The
two populations apparently met in eastern Kansas in the
early 1900s and have increased rapidly.
The
friendly house finches are now common at backyard feeders.
Males are bright red on chest, rump and most of the head
with prominent stripes on their sides and belly. They have
a bright melodious song and become quite tame.
Next:
American Robin
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