Pine Siskin - Ross Feldner

The Pine Siskin is often confused with finches or even sparrows due to its small size and coloration. As its name indicates, the Pine Siskin mostly breeds in open conifer forests. Northern pine forests support the majority of the species' breeding population.

Pine Siskins forage in diverse habitats such as forests, thickets, meadows, grassland, backyard gardens and lawns. They will also flock to backyard feeders offering small seeds.

Pine Siskins have an amazing ability to survive in very cold temperatures. Their metabolic rates are typically 40% higher than a "normal" songbird of their size. When temperatures plunge as low as −94 °F, they can accelerate their metabolic rate up to five times normal for several hours. They protect their young from extreme cold by heavily insulating their nests with thick plant materials. Females literally never cease incubating their eggs and hatchlings, while being fed by their male mate. They are dedicated parents!