The northwestern goldfinch (Spinus tristis jewetti) is a small subspecies of the American goldfinch found along the Pacific Coast. It occurs in a limited range within the coastal region of the Cascade Mountains, from British Columbia to central California.

Looking for more overview about bird subspecies:

Pale Goldfinch
Eastern Goldfinch

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Passeriformes
Family: Fringillidae
Genus: Spinus
Species: Spinus tristis
Subspecies: Spinus tristis jewetti (Northwestern Goldfinch)

How is the northwestern goldfinch identified?

The northwestern goldfinch is the smallest subspecies of American goldfinch. The male has deep yellow plumage overall with black wings, a tail, and a cap. The female is dull green-yellow with the same black markings.

In flight, white patches are visible on the wings and rump. The northwestern goldfinch has a short-forked tail and conical bill like other goldfinches.

Where is the northwestern goldfinch found?

This subspecies has a limited range along the Pacific Coast, from southern British Columbia to central California. It occurs within the coastal region on the western slopes of the Cascade Mountains. Its range overlaps with the pale goldfinch subspecies in this area.

Interesting Facts

The northwestern goldfinch is non-migratory, remaining year-round within its small coastal range.

It nests later than other subspecies, with the breeding season lasting from July to September. The nest is built in bushes and trees.

The male feeds the incubating female as she develops a brood patch to transfer heat to the eggs. Both parents feed the nestlings.

Status and Conservation

With its confined range, the northwestern goldfinch has a relatively small population. However, its numbers appear stable and no major threats are known. It is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Maintaining native vegetation that provides seeds can help support it within its narrow coastal habitat.

Frequently Asked Questions

01. What is a key way the northwestern goldfinch differs from other subspecies?

Unlike most other subspecies, the northwestern goldfinch does not migrate but remains year-round within its limited coastal range.

02. What vegetation provides important habitat for the northwestern goldfinch?

Native trees and shrubs that produce seeds, like alder, willow, and birch, help support northwestern goldfinches within their coastal ecosystem.

03. Why does the northwestern goldfinch nest later in the summer?

Nesting in July-September allows the birds to utilize peak food sources to feed their young after breeding. The later timing ensures plentiful seeds.

Verdict

The northwestern goldfinch is the smallest, darkest subspecies of American goldfinch, limited to the coastal region of the Cascade Mountains. It can be identified by its deep yellow and black plumage.

Nesting late in the summer, this non-migratory bird remains year-round within its small Pacific coastal range. Protecting natural seed sources in its specialized habitat can help ensure the future of this unique subspecies.