[DTruman]

Nov 25 at Harrison Mills. Not a good photo.

[derek]

House Finch.

[SueCoastalObserver]

On my feeder in Langley. First I thought it was a Purple Finch then I decided it was a House Finch, then back to Purple Finch. I couldn't say if he was more orange red or raspberry red.

House Finch - says shallow tail notch, but brown only on the back
Purple Finch - says deep tail notch, colour mixed with brown on the back

This guy seems to have colour on his back but a shallow notched tail, also was accompanied by this 2nd bird which I though might be a House Finch the orange variant (2nd photo)

Can't make up my mind which he is, looking for some help.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/40006638@N ... 508369674/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/40006638@N ... 508369674/

[rawalker]

I would go with house finch.

Nice pics!

Randy - Langley

[DavidWong]

In spite of the many features described in guide books, I often find it difficult to distinguish between a male House Finch and a male Purple Finch. Luckily, Finches usually travel and feed in small groups. I take advantage of the female of the species in the group to ID them. The female Purple Finch has a whitish stripe above the eyes, which a female House Finch does not have.
David Wong

[SueCoastalObserver]

Thanks David, good idea, I will keep my eyes open for the ladies next time. I was just too excited seeing a colourful bird at the feeder.