The Saffron Finch (Sicalis flaveola) is a petite songbird with a yellow head, a yellow-green upper body and an orange crown. It has a grey bill, legs and feet, and black eyes. Females have slightly muted colors compared to the males and the juveniles are yellow-grey with dark stripes. The Saffron Finch arrived to Hawaii from South America in the 1960’s and is now found in most regions of the Big Island. Saffron Finches feed on seeds, fruit and insects. They build their nests in tree hollows or rock crevasses. The Saffron Finch is a Tanager, unrelated to the canary. Observers here on the Big Island report seeing them in pairs. This is our experience also. These photos are of a bonded pair that visit us regularly. Most recently they have spent time on our front lawn with their three chicks!
