In summer the Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch breeds in the mountain parks. In winter it descends to lower altitudes and sometimes ranges eastward across the southern part of the Province.
This little sparrow-sized bird with the distinctive gray cap spends the summer and raises its young on alpine tundra and meadows, and on rocky slopes, cliffs and avalanche fields. In winter, like many resident birds, it goes where the food is, which in some winters includes farmer's fields and backyard feeders.
In summer, this finch feeds on a number of alpine plant seeds supplemented by berries as well as insects and spiders caught amongst the low alpine vegetation. In winter, weedy fields, scattered grain and platform feeders sprinkled with any kind of seed will tempt this finch.
A cozy nest of moss, hair, lichens and rootlets is lined with soft hair grasses or ptarmigan feathers is nestled in a crevice, on a ledge or eve on a man-made structure. Three to six white eggs are incubated for 12 to 14 days. Young are fledged 16 to 22 days later.
Talk about Gray-crowned Rosy-Finches on our moderated
message board. Get answers and share images. We are Alberta's largest and friendliest
online community of nature enthusiasts. Beginners and experts are
welcome. We are non-profit, non-commercial, ad free and spam free.
Where to find Gray-crowned Rosy-Finches in Alberta
Gray-Crowned Rosy-Finches are extremely rare winter visitors to the Weaselhead/Glenmore Park area most often reported in the days immediately following major snowstorms at higher elevations west and south of the city. Watch for them gathering at illegal bird feeders scattered throughout the park. Brent Johner
Please Report the Gray-crowned Rosy-Finches You See in Alberta
Our readers are always interested in hearing about the wildlife you see in Alberta.
SHAUNEEN O'BRIEN
for serving as the TALK ABOUT WILDLIFE Administrator this year