American Goldfinch in snow.

Thistle seed (nyjer) is a favorite food for these little guys.

The seed of the African yellow daisy Guizotia abyssinica, Nyjer is known by many names. Originally called niger in reference to Nigeria and the plant’s origin, the name was trademarked as Nyjer ® in 1998 by the Wild Bird Feeding Industry to clarify pronunciation. Many backyard birders also call the seed thistle, but in fact Nyjer is not related to thistle plants or seeds.

It’s been cold and windy, and a little snowy. Not too snowy. But a nor’easter blizzard may be on its way for the weekend.