GAP Analysis Predicted Distribution Map

American Goldfinch (Carduelis tristis)

Species Code: CATR

Legend:
= Core Habitat
= Marginal Habitat

Breeding Range Map
The green area shows the predicted habitats for breeding only. The habitats were identified using 1991 satellite imagery, Breeding Bird Atlas (BBA), other datasets and experts throughout the state, as part of the Washington Gap Analysis Project. Habitats used during non-breeding months and migratory rest-stops were not mapped.

Metadata (Data about data or how the map was made)

Click to enlarge distribution map

Map with Breeding Bird Atlas records

Other maps & Information:

Breeding Bird Atlas
NatureMapping observations
during breeding season
NatureMapping observations
throughout the year

This goldfinch species is common in clear-cuts, burns, grasslands, shrub-steppe, open grassy city parks, and agricultural habitats at low elevations on both sides of the Cascade crest.. In western Washington it is found at low elevations generally below 500 feet on the coast and below 1000 feet in the Puget Trough. In Northeastern Washington, it is uncommonly found at 2000 feet along major river valleys.

Core breeding areas were those below the Silver Fir zone (west side) and up to and including the Grand Fir zone (east side).

Washington birds represent two subspecies, C. t. pallidus of eastern Washington, and C. t. jewetti of western Washington. The American Goldfinch prefers habitats consisting of open grassy or shrubby foraging areas with adjacent deciduous trees for nesting. The extensive cutting of forests in western Washington has greatly increased the amount of available habitat. In eastern Washington, agriculture and grazing have also increased habitat availability for this species. It is especially fond of thistle.

Translated from the Washington Gap Analysis Bird Volume by Uchenna Bright
Text edited by Gussie Litwer
Webpage designed by Dave Lester