If you're interested in using any of these photographs in any way, please contact me. Send an e-mail to naturalhistoryphotos(at)gmail.com. Thanks!

Sunday, April 22, 2012

Black and gold


American Goldfinches (Spinus tristis) are molting into breeding plumage at this time of year.  Pictured above are three males and two females. 

Below are two males (note the black caps).  I'm guessing that the paler bird is still in the process of molting and will become brighter yellow.  Alternatively, color saturation in goldfinches is linked to their diet.  They acquire carotenoids (lutein and zeaxanthin) from seeds.



P.S.  A Game 6 win today for the Black and Gold from Beantown!  Go B's!

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

very exciting overtime for the black and gold !! c

Claudia said...

Flying lemons!