August marks the blooming of thistles, which coincides with the nesting season of American Goldfinches. These birds are late nesters, relying heavily on thistles during their breeding season. They use the down from thistles to build their nests and feed their young with the seeds. If you want to attract goldfinches, consider planting native thistles, which also support beneficial insects for other birds. With their bright yellow body feathers and black caps, male goldfinches are a favorite sight in backyards during late summer.
Want to keep the summer memories of your goldfinches with you year-round? Learn to draw one with this short video by David Sibley, renowned ornithologist, artist, and author of the comprehensive Sibley Field Guides.