The challenge lately, it seems, is to find a field or meadow without goldfinches in it.

Mid to late summer is the time for goldfinches to shine and take the spotlight in the birding world. While most birds have completed or are winding down their nesting seasons, American goldfinches are just getting started.

There are several theories on why goldfinches nest so late compared to other birds, but it is abundantly clear that their nesting season coincides with the availability of seeds and certain nesting materials in nature.

Seeds are more plentiful in July and August than they are in April or May, and goldfinches use the fluff from thistle and other plants to line their nests. Goldfinches are almost exclusively seed eaters and rarely supplement their diet with insects. That goes for the babies as well, as they are fed regurgitated seeds. Nearly all other songbirds feed their young a mix of insects and seeds, or just insects, which are higher in protein.