306 BIRDS 



THE HOUSE FINCH* 



This active and pretty little bird is an attractive feature 

 of the landscape of the western United States. It is a com- 

 mon bird throughout its range, which extends from Oregon 

 southward into Lower California and western Mexico. 

 Eastward its range extends to Colorado and the western 

 part of Texas. It is one of the best known of the birds of 

 southern California, where it is often called the California 

 finch or linnet. The brightly colored plumage of its head 

 has also given it the name Red-headed Linnet. This bird 

 is better known in many localities by the names Burion and 

 Crimson-fronted Finch. 



The House Finch is not particular in the selection of a 

 site for its home, and will build "anywhere, from the Hmb 

 of any tree to the side of a haystack, or in a tin can on a 

 porch." Neither is it particular in the choice of building 

 materials, using those which are furnished by its environ- 

 ment. Though the nests are usually constructed with coarse 

 grasses or weeds and lined with soft fibers, hair or fine 

 roots, the bird may use straws, strings, small roots, strips 

 of bark fibers, and hair in the outer wall, and feathers for 

 the lining. It has been known to preempt the unoccupied 

 nests of other birds, such as those of the oriole, the chflP 

 swallow, and also woodpecker holes. 



Its song is lively and varied, and is heard throughout 

 the year wherever the bird is a constant resident. When 

 caged, they are called Cahfornia Hnnets, and they seem to 

 thrive in caj)tivity. 



