Purple Finch: Kennebunk, Maine, USA, April 2026 — We have the Purple Finches in our yard for several weeks in early spring and a few weeks in the fall. They must nest in the pine forests around us, but so far they have not nested in the pine in our yard—and, of course, “our” Purples might be only stopping over for the sunflower seeds on their way north to the dense forests where they breed in greater numbers. Our lone pine might not be all that attractive to them. I will take them however I can get them! I have a disproportionate fondness for Purple Finches over House Finches. I know it is unreasonable, but I can live with it. Maybe if the Purples were as common as the Houses, I would feel differently, but I don’t really think so. Maybe it is that this is the Purples’ historical habitat, and the Houses are, no matter how long they have been here, incomers. I would not like to think I have become that provincial, but then I do live in Maine. I should have more compassion for the House Finches as I am an incomer myself. I will never have the accent. Purple Finches do. (Or am I mistaking Canadian for Mainer?) Anyway. Sony a7CR. Tamron 150-500 @ about 800mm equivalent field of view. Program with bird and wildlife modifications. Processed in Photomator.