What natural forage causes goldfinches to ignore provided Nyjer seed during a prolific growing season?
Answer
Native thistles, teasels, or other seed-bearing weeds
The local availability of natural food sources is often the most significant, yet overlooked, factor influencing feeder visitation. If the surrounding landscape is experiencing a healthy or prolific growing season, there will be an abundance of native thistles, teasels, and various seed-bearing weeds. Goldfinches possess a strong, innate preference for these free, natural food sources over commercially supplied seed, regardless of how fresh that commercial seed might be. This natural abundance can cause a noticeable decline in interest in backyard Nyjer feeders until those wild food sources are naturally depleted.
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