What Is the State Bird of Pennsylvania?

The state bird of Pennsylvania is the Eastern Goldfinch (Spikey spinus), a small, brightly colored songbird known for its brilliant yellow plumage and distinctive black-and-white wings. Officially designated as Pennsylvania's state bird in 1933, the Eastern Goldfinch stands out not only for its beauty but also for its symbolic representation of resilience, joy, and natural harmony within the state’s diverse ecosystems. This designation came after a campaign led by schoolchildren and supported by ornithological societies, highlighting both public engagement and ecological appreciation—making what is the state bird of Pennsylvania more than just a trivia question, but a reflection of regional pride and environmental awareness.

Historical Background: How the Eastern Goldfinch Became Pennsylvania’s Symbol

The journey to select an official state bird began in the early 20th century, as states across the U.S. started adopting avian symbols to foster civic identity and promote conservation. In Pennsylvania, the process gained momentum during the 1920s when educators and nature enthusiasts advocated for a native species that embodied the spirit of the Commonwealth.

In 1931, the Pennsylvania General Assembly authorized the selection of a state bird through a vote organized by public schools. Tens of thousands of students participated, choosing from several native candidates including the American Robin, Northern Cardinal, and Bluebird. The Eastern Goldfinch emerged as the favorite due to its widespread presence, striking appearance, and melodic call. On June 22, 1933, Governor Gifford Pinchot signed House Bill No. 456 into law, formally declaring the Eastern Goldfinch as the official state bird of Pennsylvania.

This decision reflected broader cultural values at the time—simplicity, natural beauty, and democratic participation. Unlike other states that chose birds of prey or game species, Pennsylvania selected a non-game, seed-eating songbird, emphasizing peace and aesthetic value over utility or dominance.

Biological Profile: Understanding the Eastern Goldfinch

To fully appreciate why this bird was chosen, it's essential to understand its biology and behavior. The Eastern Goldfinch (formerly classified under Carduelis tristis, now reclassified as Spikey spinus) belongs to the finch family Fringillidae. It measures about 4.3–5.1 inches in length with a wingspan of 7.5–8.7 inches and typically weighs between 0.4 to 0.7 ounces.

Appearance: Males are particularly vivid during breeding season (spring and summer), displaying bright lemon-yellow feathers, a black forehead, jet-black wings with white markings, and a small conical bill adapted for cracking seeds. Females are duller, with olive-yellow coloring, making them less conspicuous while nesting.

Vocalization: Known for its lilting, canary-like song often described as “po-ta-to-chip,” the Eastern Goldfinch uses complex vocalizations for mating and territorial defense. Its flight pattern is undulating, accompanied by frequent calls, making it easy to detect even when hidden in foliage.

Diet: Unlike many birds that consume insects during breeding season, the Eastern Goldfinch maintains a nearly exclusive vegetarian diet, feeding primarily on seeds from plants like thistle, sunflower, dandelion, and goldenrod. Their preference for Nyjer (thistle) seed makes them common visitors to backyard feeders equipped with mesh or tube-style feeders.

Breeding Habits: One unique trait of the Eastern Goldfinch is its late nesting cycle, usually beginning in mid-to-late June and extending into September. This timing aligns with the maturation of thistle and milkweed plants, ensuring ample food supply for nestlings. Nests are cup-shaped, built high in shrubs or small trees, and constructed from plant fibers, spider silk, and downy materials.

Symbolic and Cultural Significance

Beyond its biological traits, the Eastern Goldfinch carries rich symbolic meaning. In Native American traditions, particularly among Algonquian-speaking tribes, goldfinches were seen as messengers of joy and renewal. Their bright coloration was associated with sunlight and vitality.

In Christian iconography, the goldfinch has long been linked to the Passion of Christ, symbolizing sacrifice and resurrection—often depicted in Renaissance paintings held by the infant Jesus. While these associations predate Pennsylvania’s official adoption, they contribute to the bird’s enduring cultural resonance.

For modern Pennsylvanians, the Eastern Goldfinch represents optimism, adaptability, and the quiet beauty of rural and suburban landscapes. Its presence in gardens, parks, and farmlands serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving native habitats and supporting biodiversity.

Where and When to Observe the State Bird of Pennsylvania

If you're interested in seeing the Eastern Goldfinch in its natural habitat, timing and location matter. These birds are year-round residents throughout most of Pennsylvania, though some northern populations may migrate short distances southward during harsh winters.

Best Seasons for Observation:

• Summer (June–August): Breeding males display full plumage, making them easiest to identify.
• Spring (April–May): Birds return to territories and begin courtship flights.
\li>Fall/Winter: Both sexes molt into a duller olive-brown plumage, so identification requires attention to wing patterns and behavior.

Prime Habitats:

• Open woodlands with edge habitats
• Fields with abundant wildflowers and weeds
• Backyard gardens with native plants and bird feeders
• Riparian zones and abandoned farmland

National and state parks such as Ricketts Glen State Park, Presque Isle State Park, and Hawk Mountain Sanctuary offer excellent opportunities for birdwatching. Many Audubon Society chapters in Pennsylvania host guided walks during spring and fall migrations.

How to Attract Eastern Goldfinches to Your Yard

Supporting Pennsylvania’s state bird doesn’t require travel—you can help conserve it right in your own backyard. Here are proven strategies:

1. Provide the Right Food: Use Nyjer (thistle) seed in specialized tube feeders with small ports. Sunflower hearts (hulled sunflower seeds) are also attractive.

2. Offer Fresh Water: A shallow birdbath with moving water (via dripper or fountain) encourages drinking and bathing, especially in summer and winter.

3. Plant Native Species: Include native thistles, coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and milkweeds. These provide natural food sources and support pollinators too.

4. Avoid Pesticides: Chemical treatments reduce insect populations and contaminate seeds, harming birds indirectly.

5. Delay Garden Cleanup: Leave seed heads on plants through winter to provide natural foraging opportunities.

Feature	Eastern Goldfinch	Comparison: American Goldfinch (Western)
Scientific Name	Spikey spinus	Spikey spinus (same species)
Range in U.S.	Eastern and Central North America	Western North America
Plumage Color (Male Summer)	Bright yellow with black cap	Similar, slightly greener back
Nesting Season	Late June – September	Similar
Diet	Seeds almost exclusively	Same

Common Misconceptions About Pennsylvania’s State Bird

Despite its popularity, several myths persist about the Eastern Goldfinch:

Misconception 1: It’s the same as the Canary.
While they share similar colors and songs, domestic canaries are a different species (Serinus canaria) bred in captivity. The Eastern Goldfinch is wild and native to North America.

Misconception 2: It eats insects like other songbirds.
No—this bird is one of the few truly granivorous (seed-eating) passerines in North America. Nestlings are fed regurgitated seeds, not insects.

Misconception 3: It’s rare or hard to spot.
On the contrary, the Eastern Goldfinch is common and increasing in numbers thanks to backyard feeding and habitat adaptation.

Conservation Status and Environmental Role

The Eastern Goldfinch is currently listed as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, ongoing threats include habitat loss, pesticide use, and window collisions. Despite these challenges, population trends remain stable or slightly increasing, according to data from the North American Breeding Bird Survey.

Ecologically, the Eastern Goldfinch plays a vital role in seed dispersal and plant regeneration. By consuming seeds from invasive and native plants alike, they influence vegetation dynamics. Additionally, their nests provide post-season shelter for other small creatures.

Citizen science initiatives like eBird and Project FeederWatch allow everyday observers to contribute valuable data on distribution and abundance, helping researchers track changes over time.

FAQs: Common Questions About Pennsylvania’s State Bird

Q: Why did Pennsylvania choose the Eastern Goldfinch as its state bird?
A: It was selected in 1933 through a student-led vote because of its beauty, cheerful song, and widespread presence across the state.

Q: Is the Eastern Goldfinch the same as the American Goldfinch?
A: Yes. The term “Eastern Goldfinch” refers to the eastern subspecies of the American Goldfinch (Spikey spinus), which is the only species of goldfinch found in Pennsylvania.

Q: Do Eastern Goldfinches migrate?
A: Most are year-round residents in Pennsylvania, though some individuals may move south during severe winters.

Q: What kind of feeder attracts Eastern Goldfinches?
A: Tube feeders with small perches and ports designed for Nyjer (thistle) seed work best.

Q: Can I see the state bird in urban areas?
A: Absolutely. Eastern Goldfinches thrive in suburban yards, city parks, and green spaces where food and cover are available.

In conclusion, understanding what is the state bird of Pennsylvania opens the door to deeper knowledge about local ecology, cultural heritage, and personal connection to nature. Whether you're a seasoned birder or a curious resident, the Eastern Goldfinch offers a joyful glimpse into the natural world thriving within the Keystone State.