Not much of a southern flight is expected this winter. There are good food crops in the eastern boreal forest from Central Ontario eastward into the Martimes, and the northeastern US. Spruce budworm outbreaks from Ontario eastward were widespread this summer. These are providing ample food sources for Evening Grosbeaks, Pine Grosbeaks, Redpolls, Crossbills, Pine Siskins, and Purple Finches. Any birds that wander into our area will likely be in the woods more than at feeders. Researchers do not expect any big irruptions to the southeastern states this year. Similarly, the good crops are expected to hold Red-breasted Nuthatch in the north.
Source: https://finchnetwork.org/winter-finch-forecast-2026-2027
