While these social birds are relatively conspicuous, they should not be taken for granted: More than half of North America's finch species are in decline.
From the striking plumages of the three goldfinch species to the unusual and spectacular bills of crossbills and grosbeaks, finches really do have it all. However, when looked at more closely, their true beauty emerges. These small to medium-sized birds seem unassuming at first. They also have relatively pointed wings, notched tails, and distinctive flight calls.
Birds in the Fringillidae family all have compact bodies, conical bills, and short necks with large jaw muscles.
These include crossbills, Evening and Pine Grosbeaks, redpolls, and siskins. There are 17 North American finch species.
