This colourful finch breeds in the mountains and boreal and parkland regions across central and northern Alberta.
Open, mixed forests are ideal for this finch as it nests in conifers but tends to feed in deciduous trees. They are fairly common in cities and towns in central Alberta.
This small finch forages high and low for weed seeds as well as tree seeds, fruit and buds. As with most birds, insects are rarely turned down when available. These variably shaded finches can also be enticed to feeders supplying millet or sunflower seed. The shade and intensity of their colouring is reported to be due in part to their diet.
An eclectic nest of twigs, grasses and moss is sometimes reported to include bits of string and even horsehair and pieces of snakeskin. Three to six greenish blue eggs flecked with dark markings are incubated for 13 to 15 days, with young fledged about 20 days later.
Talk about Purple 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 Purple Finches in Alberta
Although recognized as a nesting species in the Weaselhead/Glenmore Park area, the number of individual Purple Finches present in the park at any one time is never very high. In fact, the occurrence of this species ranges from rare to uncommon in the Weaselhead/Glenmore Park area all year round. Watch for these birds appearing most often at illegal bird feeders scattered throughout the park. Brent Johner
Please Report the Purple Finches You See in Alberta
Our readers are always interested in hearing about the wildlife you see in Alberta.
KEN OAKES
for serving as the society's PRESIDENT this year