They often descend on fields of thistles or wild sunflowers, where they cling to the dried flower heads, eating seeds. The female loosely attaches the nest toward the end of a horizontal branch, by preference in the middle heights of a conifer. Although it is patterned like a sparrow, its shape, actions, and callnotes all reveal that this bird is really a goldfinch in disguise. Pine Siskins are small birds with light brown streaks and bright yellow and black edges on their wings and tails. They usually travel in flocks and prefer woodlands and open conifer forests. I guess the competition is too much for them. After nesting in the conifer woods, Pine Siskins move out into semi-open country, where they roam in twittering flocks. Flashes of yellow can erupt as they take flight, flutter at branch tips, or display during mating. Pine Siskins often visit feeders in winter (particularly for thistle or nyjer seed) or … - Captured Live on Ustream at http://www.ustream.tv/channel/geocachelinda Urban house finch and siskin populations fluctuate dramatically, and now I believe this is mainly because of people feeding them. Wish I knew how to get rid of the siskins … I was hoping they'd leave when the weather turned warm, but they are still here draining the feeders. A member of the finch family, Pine Siskins (Spinus pinus) can be found throughout the US in the winter, but usually head north to Canada to breed. large flock of pine siskins decending on my feeders! Nest Placement. The big flocks of pine siskins and purple finches that have been here for more than three weeks are still gobbling up the seeds. Normally, I have dozens and dozens of goldfinches, but they are not around as much anymore. Yes, I am aware that pine siskins move about erratically from year to year--but that has nothing to do with this situation. The spot is usually well concealed by foliage, often by another branch directly above it. Pine Siskins often nest in loose colonies where neighboring nests can be just a few trees away. Pine siskins are brown and very streaky birds with subtle yellow edgings on wings and tails.