Absolutely Lesser Goldfinch. By the way, I don't know how much time you spent looking at warbler pics, but you would have saved yourself that effort by noting the bill shape: warblers have much thinner bills. Bill shape and size is often a good clue to point you in the right direction; bright colour patterns you'll likely remember without trying, but the bill really needs to be looked at (unless we're talking about a toucan or spoonbill etc). Just a friendly hint. -O-

Ok...so I believe Google helped me ID this as a zebra finch. Looks like it's native to Australia! Must be someone's escaped pet? Wonder how he's doing today? He's a long way from home here in NE FL.

The lantern is a very classy design. What are the impressions on the birdbath pedestal, were they accomplished in the casting process or were they etched/carved on after. The color of both is very interesting, and will look nice nestled in the garden. Dena

I agree with your ids of house finch and verdin. I don't live in an area with nesting verdin, so cannot attest to their protective nature concerning nests. But many of the smaller bird species choose instead to build in spiny or dense bushes for protection and try to lure threats away from the nest by making a verbal fuss, rather than physical attacks. I enjoyed seeing your photos.