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Lawrence's Goldfinch
Spinus lawrencei
NatureServe conservation status
Global (G-rank): G3G4
State (S-rank): SNA
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Species range
Primary breeding range extends from central California south (west of the Sierra Nevada crest) to northern Baja California and east (at least formerly) to Arizona, with a few nesting records outside this region (Davis 1999); this goldfinch is most numerous in inland valleys and fotthills of southern California. During the breeding season, nonbreeding birds sometimes occur in Arizona and New Mexico (Davis 1999). Winter range generally includes southern California and northern Baja California; in some years, this species occurs in winter in northern and central California, and sometimes it spreads eastward (fall through early spring) into Arizona, southern Nevada, southwestern New Mexico, western Texas, and northern Mexico (Davis 1999).
Migration
Populations breeding north of theTransverse Ranges in southern California generally are migratory, whereas those to the south probably are incompletely and irregularly migratory (Davis 1999). Upslope movements have been noted in fall, especially in drought years (Davis 1999).
Habitat
Habitats include oak woodland, chaparral, riparian woodland, pinyon-juniper association, and weedy areas in arid regions, usually near water (AOU 1983). Breeding occurs predominantly in open woodlands of arid and semiarid foothills and valleys, usually near water; from sea level near the coast and in some interior valleys to nearly 2,900 meters in southern California (Davis 1999). Nests are in evergreen oaks, conifers, or deciduous trees, 1-12 meters above ground.
Food habits
Diet includes mainly seeds, also insects during the breeding season. Foraging birds often are in flocks.
Ecology
This species is highly social; it often forms loose flocks of 20-30 birds. Flocks may include other species of goldfinches or other passerines.
Reproductive characteristics
Breeding begins in late March-early April. Female (fed by male) incubates typically 4-5, sometimes 3-6, eggs. Both parents tend young, which leave nest in about 11 days. Pairs may nest singly or in loose colonies.
Threats or limiting factors
No major threats have been identified. Conversion of oak woodland and chaparral to intensive human uses presumably have reduced habitat availability in some areas. Loss of disturbance regimes (i.e., grazing, agriculture, fire) could have a negative impact (Davis 1999).
