Hang your thistle feeder at least 15 feet from other feeders and water sources. Hang it 4-5 feet in the air in a brushy area if possible. Click here to learn more about thistle seed. Black oil sunflower seed is also enjoyed by goldfinches. Special black oil sunflower feeders are available to provide lots of perching space for these gregarious birds.
Goldfinches nest later in the season than most species.
This is when their favorite food, thistle seeds ripen. The females also line their nests with the down of thistle. They tend to build their nests and mate from June through August. Goldfinches, which mate in monogamous pairs, like to nest in forked branches up to 30 feet high, usually near water. Females often return to the same site.