Seeding ...

1 August

American Goldfinches are very active at the moment paying attention to zinnia flowers because zinnias produce abundant seeds and Goldfinches are primarily seed-eaters.

We have been watching many of these birds perching on our flowers, sticking their heads deep inside them, pulling off petals, and finding the seeds nestled at the base of the petals. The behavior is really persistent such that we have noticed scattered or missing petals beneath zinnia plants.

The late summer nesting time of this species coincides with the period when many summer flowers are producing the most seeds, making flowers such as zinnias a critical resource. In French, these birds are Chardonneret jaune, named after thistles (chardons) which also have high seed production.

Each zinnia flower head is composed of many small florets that each produce seeds, and the seeds are the optimal size and nutrition for goldfinches' beaks and seed-based diet. What’s more, the structure of zinnia flowerhead is such that birds have easy access. The relatively open and flat arrangement of zinnia flowers makes it quite straightforward for goldfinches to perch and pick seed directly from the flower head.

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There is a splendid Substack by name of Flowerology by a Dutch illustrator. Even if you are not fascinated by all things flowery, her illustrations are worth the time. Here is a link to a sample:

Enchanter's Nightshade