March 26, 2026

A Purple Finch (Haemorhous purpureus). Here in central Virginia they sometimes come for winter’s nonbreeding season. Sometimes they don’t.

They are said to be irruptive migrants, much like Robins (Turdus migratorius). They may come into your general area and stay for most of the winter season, or they may be just a few miles away enjoying the things they love to eat. Things like seeds from conifers, and seeds from Elms, Maples, Tulip Poplars, and berries of Junipers, Dogwoods, and even Poison Ivy. If you’re feeding the birds, these Finches love black oil Sunflower seeds. They’ll be where they feel they are most well fed.

Soon they’ll be on their way north, heading to their breeding grounds. Hoping I’ll see a few next autumn and winter.

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