What is the state bird of New Jersey?
The Eastern Goldfinch (American Goldfinch), Spinus tristis, named New Jersey's state bird in 1935. 2 other states share it.
- State bird
- Eastern Goldfinch (American Goldfinch)
- Scientific name
- Spinus tristis
- Year adopted
- 1935
- Shared with
- Iowa, Washington
- Status in New Jersey
- present all year
- Nesting season here
- July–September
- Size
- 4.3–5.1 in, 0.4–0.7 oz
Seeing a American Goldfinch in New Jersey
In New Jersey the American Goldfinch is present all year. Breeding male bright yellow with a black forehead and black wings with white bars. Females and winter birds olive-brown to dull yellow with bold wing bars. Long, twittering song; distinctive flight call "po-ta-to-chip" given in bouncing flight.
Other states with the Eastern Goldfinch
New Jersey shares its bird with Iowa, Washington. Most state birds were picked in the 1920s and 1930s, often through school votes and women's club campaigns, and popular, widespread birds were chosen again and again.
Frequently asked
What is the state bird of New Jersey?
The Eastern Goldfinch (American Goldfinch) (Spinus tristis), adopted in 1935.
When did New Jersey choose its state bird?
1935.
Do other states have the same state bird as New Jersey?
Yes: Iowa, Washington.
Can you see the Eastern Goldfinch (American Goldfinch) in New Jersey all year?
In New Jersey it is present all year. Nesting runs about July to September.
Adoption years from state archives and statutes as compiled in the List of U.S. state birds.