They are also regular in southern Idaho. They often withdraw from the northern portions of their range in winter. Lesser Goldfinches are usually found in small flocks, where they call constantly and swirl around feeding on thistle seeds. They drink a lot of water, so are usually found near riparian areas, even in dry country. The nest is a neat cup of plant fibers and grasses usually placed in trees or dense bushes from 2-30 feet high.
Goldfinches are in the finch family.
The finch family used to include sparrows and buntings, but have recently been split. No finches are found in Australia, but occur primarily in the northern hemisphere around the world. Finches have conical bills well-suited for eating seeds. Most have 9 primary flight feathers and 12 tail feathers. Any discussion of identification of goldfinches must start with the common and widespread American Goldfinch.