BellaOnline Forums Hobbies and Crafts Birding RedPoll vs. HouseFinchQuestion

Could anyone tell me how to tell the difference between a RedPoll and a house Finch? They look almost the same. The males have that reddish head and chest. I looked in my books, but I don't really see any differences. I asked my Aunt who knows a great deal about backyard birds, and she can't tell the difference either. If anyone can help, my aunt and I would appreciate it. Sincerely, moose

Moose,
The most obvious difference in the mature males is that the House Finch has much more of the reddish color on his head and chest than the Redpoll. Another difference is that the Redpoll males have very distinctive white wingbars and the House Finch doesn't. Also the Redpoll has a very short, pointed, sharp beak and the House Finch has a little bit longer and slightly humped beak.
GBJonno

GBJonno, Thank you so much for the information on the House Finch and Redpoll. You were extremely helpful and I do appreciate you sharing your expertise! Sincerely, moose <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Moose,
Your very welcome...I love to discuss wild birds, at least the ones I know somthing about. Don't forget it's now February and that is "National Bird Feeding Month"! Please fill your feeders, provide water and enjoy the winter with your Fat and Happy wild birds friends...