What do Purple Finches eat

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Purple finches are small, colorful birds that are found throughout North America. These birds are known for their vibrant plumage, which ranges from a reddish-purple to a raspberry color. Purple finches are primarily seed-eaters and their diet consists of a variety of seeds, fruits, and insects.

• Seeds

Purple finches are particularly fond of seeds from coniferous trees such as pines, spruces, and firs. They have strong, conical bills that are well adapted for cracking open the hard shells of these seeds. They also feed on seeds from deciduous trees such as birch and maple, as well as weeds and grasses. Some of their favorite seeds include sunflower seeds, thistle seeds, and millet.

• Fruits

In addition to seeds, purple finches also eat a variety of fruits. They particularly enjoy the fruits of the dogwood, raspberry, blackberry, and mulberry trees. They also feed on fruits from apple and cherry trees. In the fall, they are known to seek out and eat the berries of mountain ash and juniper trees.

• Insects

While seeds and fruits make up the bulk of their diet, purple finches will also eat insects when they are available. They particularly enjoy caterpillars, beetles, and ants. Insects are a particularly important food source for purple finch chicks, as they provide the protein and nutrients necessary for growth and development.

• Feeding habits

Purple finches are generally ground feeders, meaning they forage for food on the ground or on low-hanging branches. They are known to visit bird feeders, especially during the winter months when food sources are scarce. They prefer tube feeders filled with sunflower seeds or thistle seeds, but will also eat suet and other birdseed mixes.

In conclusion, purple finches are primarily seed-eaters, but they also consume a variety of fruits and insects. Their diet consists of seeds from coniferous and deciduous trees, as well as fruits from a variety of berry bushes and fruit trees. While they are primarily ground feeders, they will visit bird feeders when food sources are scarce. By providing a mix of seeds, fruits, and insects, backyard birdwatchers can attract these colorful birds to their feeders and enjoy their beauty and unique feeding habits.