The Green-backed Goldfinch 



The range of choice in nesting sites for this species is very great. 

 Sycamore trees are an early favorite, because of the shelter promised by 

 its generous leaves. And in this connection it may be well to note that 

 most birds, whether ground or tree nesters, see to it that their nest is in 

 shadow through the middle of the day. The burning rays of the sun must 

 be avoided, at least by the tender nestlings. It is this fact, and not pre- 

 sumed escape from observation, which is the controlling factor in most 



BABY GREEXBACKS 



Photo by D. R. Dickey 

 Taken in Ventura County 



nest-building projects. The cypress is also a favorite with the Goldfinch, 

 and whether the nests be placed close to the trunk of the tree, or, prefer- 

 ably, well out toward the tip of a branch, is determined again by the shade 

 offered by some overshadowing twig or branch. Live oaks conceal their 

 myriads also. In this case, the bird, securely sheltered by a bristling 

 array of sturdy leaves, prefers the tip of a drooping branch, or at least 

 an outside situation. When the timber gives out, the Green-backs take 

 cheerfully to the major weed-patches, or even invade the open sage, to 

 take pot luck with Bell Sparrows and Bush-Tits. 



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