  
The House Finch is an abundant
bird often associated closely with human habitation. Although the
native western population occurs in a wide variety of habitats
ranging from undisturbed desert to chaparral and open coniferous
forests to cities, range expansions have been made possible by
man's changes to the environment. The House Finch prefers edge
habitat, and even in desert areas, these finches require a source
of water, as well as structures for perching and nesting. These
structures may be small conifers or buildings. Over most of its
range, House Finch abundance is closely correlated with the size
of the local human population. Everywhere, the House Finch is a
gregarious bird, forming loose flocks in breeding season, and
flocks that may number into the hundreds in the winter. They
roost in close proximity to each other, sometimes touching. These
vegetarian birds are strongly attracted to feeders, where they
prefer small sunflower seeds. At other times of the year they
feed on buds, seeds and fruits. House Finches will readily nest
in almost any man-made structure, including, barns, garages,
under awnings and in hanging flower baskets.
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