The Timeless Charm Of The Goldfinch

What a wonderful, lovely little bird. Always a joy to behold, its captivating song brightens the spirits. It's a song which is recognizable before you even see this glorious small bird. I simply adore them.

This morning, there were about eight of them at my nyger feeders, two of them juveniles. The juvenile doesn't have its parents' red face and it boasts a speckled breast; its song distinctive and different from the adult. It's certainly a more demanding song which seems to say "I'm here! Feed me, I'm waiting impatiently!" These juveniles are well able to feed themselves but haven't lost their infantile behaviour and characteristics.

There's a juvenile goldfinch on the left; and an adult to the right.